Lesser known issue that is more common in the snow belt area is the Lower Steering I-Shaft U-Joint.
Problem is that it is more exposed to the elements, and subject to Water, Snow, Salt, Sand, Dirt, and anything else that can be kicked up by the drivers side tire while driving.
What ends up happening, is the U-Joint corrodes, rusts and gets PACKED with crap. The effect of this, when turning the steering wheel, it feels like you hit a "hard spot" about every 90* you turn the steering wheel. It will go Smooth, then DIFFICULT then smooth. Almost as if the power steering is going out and back on again.
Replacement of the shaft is Expensive, and difficult process requiring much to be removed. I was originally commenting under the Model S forum on this, as I couldn't find anything on the MX forum, however, I do have a MX with the problem.
Here is my solution for cleaning and re-lubricating that U-Joint without the $1000-$1500 replacement cost (Almost all Labor).
Further, and I will update when done, I already have a solution in the works for a open ended clamp on boot. I ordered the parts and waiting for them to arrive. I will add the second video when I have that done.
Safe Degreaser to clean the U-Joint (Won't Damage other components): https://amzn.to/3f4mH2k Currently recommended Lubricant Similar to the (Discontinued) Product used in the video: https://amzn.to/35smAds
Problem is that it is more exposed to the elements, and subject to Water, Snow, Salt, Sand, Dirt, and anything else that can be kicked up by the drivers side tire while driving.
What ends up happening, is the U-Joint corrodes, rusts and gets PACKED with crap. The effect of this, when turning the steering wheel, it feels like you hit a "hard spot" about every 90* you turn the steering wheel. It will go Smooth, then DIFFICULT then smooth. Almost as if the power steering is going out and back on again.
Replacement of the shaft is Expensive, and difficult process requiring much to be removed. I was originally commenting under the Model S forum on this, as I couldn't find anything on the MX forum, however, I do have a MX with the problem.
Here is my solution for cleaning and re-lubricating that U-Joint without the $1000-$1500 replacement cost (Almost all Labor).
Further, and I will update when done, I already have a solution in the works for a open ended clamp on boot. I ordered the parts and waiting for them to arrive. I will add the second video when I have that done.
Safe Degreaser to clean the U-Joint (Won't Damage other components): https://amzn.to/3f4mH2k Currently recommended Lubricant Similar to the (Discontinued) Product used in the video: https://amzn.to/35smAds
