02-06-2018, 10:45 AM | #1 |
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heavy steering
I've driven cars without power steering before and I've never had a problem. I know the steering is quite heavy when the car isn't moving, but it always seemed to get easier once going,
I drove my car home yesterday from Seymour, TN back to Soddy-Daisy, and there were a couple times on some back roads it was all I could do to get the car to turn. Also, it feels as if the steering is sticking and not wanting to return to center. I can turn the wheel in a corner and let go and the steering will stay where I let go. Is this normal? or is there something else I need to be looking into. I checked my Mechanics handbook for help with possible lubrication of the steering system but didn't have much luck. I probably over looked it somewhere. Thanks for any help/advice. |
02-06-2018, 10:55 AM | #2 |
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Re: heavy steering
Check your toe in and the kingpin thrust bearings should be taking the load and is the steering bax adjusted properly ? You might consider the teflon rod bushings for the steering arms.
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02-06-2018, 11:01 AM | #3 |
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Re: heavy steering
Sounds like your entire steering system needs looked over and at minimum greased. Castor could be all outa whack as well. Should drive pretty much like a modern car without power steering.
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02-06-2018, 11:29 AM | #4 |
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Re: heavy steering
Check all steering components but sounds like a dry, or worse, gear box.
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02-06-2018, 11:38 AM | #5 |
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Re: heavy steering
You are getting older and your arm muscles aren't what they used to be...
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02-06-2018, 11:50 AM | #6 |
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Re: heavy steering
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02-06-2018, 12:02 PM | #7 | ||
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Re: heavy steering
Quote:
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02-06-2018, 12:04 PM | #8 | |
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Re: heavy steering
Quote:
Don't start installing Teflon bushings or shortened pitman arms before rectifying the problems. Sounds like your steering box needs adjustment or oil (not uncommon). Last edited by Y-Blockhead; 02-06-2018 at 12:13 PM. |
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02-06-2018, 12:18 PM | #9 | |
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Re: heavy steering
Quote:
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02-06-2018, 12:18 PM | #10 | |
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Re: heavy steering
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I don't know if you are the youngest. At age 99 they start counting from 1 again on this forum. Only 2 digits... So if someone started all over let hear from you ! |
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02-06-2018, 12:22 PM | #11 |
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Re: heavy steering
In our 29 with a completely restored front end, when car is moving, you can drive with one hand.
I would start with a good grease job, if you can with high pressure lub gun. Not knowing cars history but reading your notes. I would be leaning towards a group of things that might need attention. Rebuilt suspension, front end, and brakes, must be correct. They all work together, very important. |
02-06-2018, 12:28 PM | #12 |
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Re: heavy steering
be sure to pack front wheel bearings also
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02-06-2018, 12:34 PM | #13 |
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Re: heavy steering
CB919ER, I know exactly what you are talking about.
Check the steering box for oil. My 31 did the same while out on a drive one time. The oil had simply dripped out over time. Good Luck. Great to have a young guy in our presence. . Jeff
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02-06-2018, 12:43 PM | #14 | ||
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Re: heavy steering
Quote:
Quote:
Last edited by CB919ER; 02-06-2018 at 03:09 PM. |
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02-06-2018, 12:51 PM | #15 |
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Re: heavy steering
King pins are also a major concern if setting for a while. now you are turning on metal to metal with a very serious load
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02-06-2018, 12:59 PM | #16 |
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Re: heavy steering
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02-06-2018, 01:20 PM | #17 |
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Re: heavy steering
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02-06-2018, 01:22 PM | #18 |
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Re: heavy steering
Get a copy of the Red Book. It will answer many questions. For the steering box, get some PennRite steering box lube (NO leakee). Is there a local club near you?? Someone from it would probably be happy to help you out.
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02-06-2018, 01:29 PM | #19 |
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Re: heavy steering
I've got the redbook, It's a wonderful tool to help.
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02-06-2018, 03:05 PM | #20 | |
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Re: heavy steering
Quote:
I guess it's rare to have a guy my age with an interest in classic cars like the Model A, and T, without building them into hotrod. |
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