s type 2.7d vibration issues

[frenchdave]

I have a 2005 2.7td with 120k miles on it.

I have had it for a year, and use it to tow a trailer of 1600kg so it gets a work out. It has developed a shake via the steering on medium to hard acceleration, and also on braking . I have replaced both front wishbones, the bent ones with a large bush at one end, and the track rod ends. I cannot see any other bushes that are worn. I wonder if these cars when used for towing have any ware points? Can engine mounts or gearbox mounts cause this. Could the bushes on the bottom of the shocks at the front cause this? Or the top mounts to the shocks?

Any ideas please as this is only getting worse. I don't suspect brake discs as it happens on acceleration and braking.

Thoughts??

[Old Peter]

Hi David,

The recommended weight of a trailer for your car is around 1500kg, so it is possible that towing a 1600kg trailer has caused some kind of damage.  The car has the power to tow over 1800kg but the criterion for towing is the kerb weight.

I would have the car checked over to see if there are any areas that could be damaged.

Regards,

Peter.

[frenchdave]

its a 1600kg max trailer but i only tow 1350kg with a MGf on board

Trying to avoid using a dealer hence asking what others may have found out. i have a two post lift, so can get a good look at things. As I say does the s type suffer with engine mounts or strut top mounts going? If so which ones?

[Old Peter]

Hi David,

That's my theory down the drain!

I have not had any problems such as you describe, but engine mounts look to be a possibility.

I would run the engine at about 1500 revs with a glass of water on the top of the engine, preferably on metal, to see the effect on the water.

Peter. 

[frenchdave]

only happens when under load going uphill on acceleration or downhill when braking

[Old Peter]

14 hours ago, frenchdave said:

only happens when under load going uphill on acceleration or downhill when braking

It sounds like an engine problem to me.