Steering creak fix

So my 03 cobra started to creak when turning (my 04 did the same thing).
So i ran a search and came across this thread under the how 2 section.

Creaking/Squeaking steering wheel when turning fix
TSB that identifies and fixes this problem: # TSB 05-14-3
So i ran out and picked up the updated sleeves E5DZ-3K620-A...

It looks like the updated sleeves should be shorter according to the comparison pic in the how 2 thread.
When i took the old ones out they were the same length. (here's a pic)


So since i removed the old sleeve i just figured i'd replace it with the new ones i got. My question is, did i have the updated sleeves already?

The creaking went away but i'm thinking it'll probably come back if i already had the updated sleeves.

I also came across this page where they talk about cutting the sleeves.
http://paladinmicro.com/MustangSteeringRackFix.htm

Eventually i'm going to slap on the MM steering bushings...

Will the dealership fix this? Sometimes they will off warranty because of the TSB. I brought my car in 3 times to fix the creak. It keeps coming back every year or so.

MM solid rack bushings FTW!:rockon::beer:

Those sleeves have a 1985 prefix on the part # ----> "E5DZ" I don't see how they could possibly be an update on an 03/04.

The lube wears out thus the recurring nature of this problem...

Ditch em... MM solids are the answer. If they ever do make noise they are way easier to lube and retighten.

The improved steering feel is not minor. It is dramatic! NVH is nil.

I had mine replaced at the "stealership" and it wasnt covered under warranty. I even have a platinum extended warranty and they wouldnt cover it.

Cost me about 90 bucks.

Jimmysidecarr said:

MM solid rack bushings FTW!:rockon::beer:

Click to expand...

Thats the route I will be taking.

I assume the solids replace the stock bushings and need to be pressed in. Does the rack need to be out of the car for the solids?

Jimmysidecarr said:

MM solid rack bushings FTW!:rockon::beer:

Those sleeves have a 1985 prefix on the part # ----> "E5DZ" I don't see how they could possibly be an update on an 03/04.

The lube wears out thus the recurring nature of this problem...

Ditch em... MM solids are the answer. If they ever do make noise they are way easier to lube and retighten.

The improved steering feel is not minor. It is dramatic! NVH is nil.

Click to expand...

351stang said:

I assume the solids replace the stock bushings and need to be pressed in. Does the rack need to be out of the car for the solids?

Click to expand...

No pressing..
Not that tough to do.
I did mine myself with the car on jack stands.
Rack does not come completely out of the car.
Installation instructions on the web site. look up the part numbr for you application first then the installation instructions.
http://www.maximummotorsports.com/

^+1

Don't even waste your time w/ the dealer. Get the solid MM steering rack bushings. If you have basic mechanical skills you will have them replaced in less than an hour.

Just installed the mm aluminum bushings. As you said Jimmy, the steering is substantially improved.

This has to be one of the best, if not the best bang for the buck mod(s) @ $39 smackers!:rockon:

FAsnakes said:

Just installed the mm aluminum bushings. As you said Jimmy, the steering is substantially improved.

This has to be one of the best, if not the best bang for the buck mod(s) @ $39 smackers!:rockon:

Click to expand...

Another happy ending!!:rockon::banana:epper::beer:

just got some poly bushings at summit racing since i live 10 min's away...also got my sleeves through Ford and they should have it in by this Tues. i can't wait to get that creek sound taken care of, plus the improved steering.

i will have to get me some MM bushings for my self. thanks for the info Jimmy

Snakebite2k3 said:

i will have to get me some MM bushings for my self. thanks for the info Jimmy

Click to expand...

x2 on that...I need to get this fixed soon!

FAsnakes said:

Just installed the mm aluminum bushings. As you said Jimmy, the steering is substantially improved.

This has to be one of the best, if not the best bang for the buck mod(s) @ $39 smackers!:rockon:

Click to expand...

Did you get part #MMST-7

Site says not to use them with a stock K-member. Does that not apply to Cobras? I don't see any other aluminum bushings on the site for the steering rack.

Is MMST-7 the ones I need or no?

Thanks!

dealership fixed mine....