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Classic/Antique Car Repair/Stiff steering won't self center

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Expert: - 3/11/2008


Question
In answer to your last question. No, it's not the loaded type. I have it only tight enough to not wobble

Answer
Well that leads down to one of two possible problems. 1. A problem in the steering box. A control valve problem or a seal that is allowing unbalanced pressure on each side of the piston. 2. A misaligned rear end. Perhaps a problem with one of the rear center bolts that locates the rear axle on the rear spring. Have some one follow you down the road and see if the rear end of the car is crabbing. Check that first and let me know. It could be so slight that a four wheel alignment check is the only way to show it.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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