severe steering shudder '83 533i 40-60mph

[jay alan]

1983 533i 149,000 miles

severe front end side to side shudder, usually begins @ 40mph, worsens considerably
by 45mph-53, then decreases & vanishes by 60mph.

car drives great at all other speeds between 0-90 mph

occurs both during acceleration & deceleration.


can't isolate/solve problem (3 mechanics)

have replaced
ball joints
control arm assemblys
thrust arms & bushings
idler arms
front wheel bearings
turned front brake rotors
balanced tires (3 times)
rotated tires
trued bmw aluminum rims (even though they may not have needed)
replaced tires (with michelin speed rated)

my mechanic now thinks replacing old steering gearbox will solve problem


if you have any experience or knowledge of similar problem, please let me know!

thanks very much!

jay

[Slvr e39]

I don't know the proper terminology for the steering gearbox but since you have almost replaced or fixed everything else it could be that may be the trick.....

sorry I wasn't more help

Good Luck

[Slvr e39]

What about the spacers?????

[E28boi]

Check your tire rods and center drag link. Also I would get the tires rebalanced at another shop just to be sure. Also check your wheels to see if they are out of round.

Caution: If you had all these parts replaced because of this problem, then it is time to take your car to another shop. They should have narrowed it down the first time.