DCPathy wrote:Thanks - it seems like there is some play in the sliding mechanism, front to back. It's especially evident when braking and then accelerating - the seat moves around. Not a big deal, ill get to it eventually. The steering is more annoying - certain bumps make it dance around when driving and the front vibrates a bit at 80mph and feels a tad loose. Assuming its either tie rod ends or ball joints in the control arms maybe? Will investigate this weekend. Anywhere I can find a suspension diagram?
I have the exact same seat issue. I usually move the seat forward or back as a temporary fix which only last a few hours until I have to slam the brakes or has then I feel the slight front to back motion you are mentioning.
If you discover a permanent fix please share, I haven't investigated yet to determine what it could be.
As for the the 80mph vibrations and the darting of the steering when hitting bumps or bridge joints on the highway. I think everyone has determined the darting it a poor engineering within the suspension geometry. Many, many complaints of this in the forum. I think new shocks (bilstein HD), and alignment are the best fixes. People have reported it really helps. Also a softer tire pressure helps greatly. I run mine at 35.0psi.
As for the 80mph vibs I would recommend a tire Balance, front U joints and wheel bearing inspections. When you get vibrations is 90% of the time cause by something rotating and not something such as the tie rod or balls joint unless they are on their way out, in which case you should notice popping and creaking at slower speeds.
Feel free to ask me any questions, I have 108k now and ever since I hit 100k I have been doing a major preventative maintenance regiment. Pretty much replacing every suspension component, wheel bearing, all fluids, and typical wear items throughout the whole car. Needless to say I am almost done.
As for the diagram, check out courtesy parts nissan. Their web page shows a nice layout of suspension when looking at their parts catalog.