Picked up a '92 Civic DX sedan for a good price. Runs great, but the front suspension could use a little work. Before I start purchasing replacement components/bushings, I'd like your guys' opinions.

Symptoms:
* Alignment off
* Loose steering. Car tends to wander around the lane
* Un-linear steering effort
* At or near full-lock, steering does not want to center itself
* Clunks over bumps, especially low-speed bumps with wheels turned

I figure on replacing at least the outter tie rods and upper ball joints. If necessary, inner tie rods and lower ball joints.

What are other commonly-replaced items in the front suspension? Would it be more beneficial (or cost-effective) to buy a pre-assembled bushing kit, like from Energy Suspension, even if I'm not looking for upgraded items?

Note:
* Power steering fluid full, no leaks. Pump works as it should
* No components look more worn than any others.

Thanks in advance!

 

try easiest would be get a alignment and then check out its steering.... you might be suprised what a mis alignment can throw off your steering.
other than the the balljoints check a few bushings for bad cracks....

 

As addiction says, get an alignment job first and check the tire pressure:




For the loose steering, try adjusting the rack guide:

 

I would say replace the rear trailing arm bushings, if you do stay away from energy suspension for that specific bushing