31 loose front end and bad brakes

Posted by Steve Watrous on May 11, 1997 at 20:13:10

My 31 coupe suffers from terrible brakes and front end shimmy.
It is a 25 year old restoration.The brake shoes are bonded and appear to be hard like 60's/70's linings.I bought the video o brakes and am preparing to follow it. But any additional thoughts will be appreciated.I have attempted to find play in: king pins, tie rod ends, and steering box. Steering box appears to need rebuilding as I can't less than about 2" of free play at the steering wheel rim.The tires are old, soon to be replaced.I was surprised that I could not find perceptable play in the king pins or tie rod ends as car shakes like crazy sometimes and other times drives fairly well.Worst shimmy occurs on uneven pavement but sometimes on new smooth pavement. There seems to be some play (1/16-1/8") in radius rod ball.What kind of luck have any of you had with the rubber ball replacement kits?I'm sure these same questions have been asked many times.I thank you all for any suggestions and yous patience with a new "kid"

Follow Ups:
Re: 31 loose front end and bad brakes Bob Carabbio May 11, 1997 at 22:02:48(0)
Re: 31 loose front end and bad brakes Jim McPhersom May 11, 1997 at 21:32:07(0)

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