Re: Loose steering

Posted by Glen Weilbaker on August 04, 1998 at 07:24:56

In Reply to: Loose steering
posted by Al Downs on August 03, 1998 at 23:50:18

Al,
Congrats for your A.
I like to look at the steering in sections or areas, the box,
the spindles, the linkage and the "wish bone". Probably you'll have wear in all the areas, but it helps to concentrate and not become overwhelmed. You are going to need some parts, these are going to add up quickly so if you tackle the worse then work your way to the least till she the way she's suppose to be over sometime you'll get to know your A.
Start with what hits the roads first, the spindles, with the wheels off the ground, grab the wheel at 12:00 and 6:00, push at 12:00, pull at 6:00 back and forth, if she wiggles, could be loose bearings and or king pins.
The linkage is next, usually I find the ends in need of cleaning and repacking to free the springs. The cups will need to be checked along with the balls for egg shape, The balls can get by with some egg shape.
The wishbone, check for play at the ball at the clutch housing. There are two types available, the original and a quicky rubber ball type. Many fellows like the rubber type for ease of replacement but the rubber needs to be inspected regularly.
Also make sure the perches are TIGHT, here can be a look see for the spring shackle and bushings, note any wear, a whole nuther post.
Lastly the box, you have a 31 so most probable a 2 tooth type and she can be adjusted. Have a helper grab the steering wheel and rock back and forth while you look at the sector arm for lost movement. If so there is an adjustment procedure that can be tried, but it won't make up for worn sector housing bushings, oh yes, which is checked by grabing the arm on the linkage end and wiggling in and out with respect to the car.
The thing to do is get yourself some manuals, Les Andrew's, Mechanics Hand Book, the five "How to Restore Your Model A" and the Service Bulletins are a good start and describe everything to get you on the straight track.
The parts and books are available from Bratton's and Snyder's, their numbers are listed on the www.mafca.com sight.
Good Luck,
GW

Follow Ups:
Re: Loose steering Al Downs August 04, 1998 at 18:58:04(0)

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