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Classic/Antique Car Repair/65 Mustang
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Question
My 65 mustang,289 engine recently started darting to the left and sometime the right when I drive. I noticed yesterday that there is a thumbnail size groove that has been worn into the inner wall of the front drivers side tire. I don't see any tire rubber on any part near the area on any part that could be causing this groove to be worn into the inner part of the tire. I feel sure this is causing my car to dart to and fro but can't find what is rubbing into the inner wall of the tire. A small bump in the road really causes it to dart, like I lose control for a split second. Things I can grab feel tight under the car.
I though maybe a worn shock but I don;t believe a bad shock would allow for something to protrude into the tire causing this groove. Hope you can help. Tank you.
This a serious safety condition. You either have a tie rod end that is about to come apart or a defect in a ball joint. The darting is the front end alignment changing caused by the loose or worn part. The wear is the parts actually rubbing the tire.
Brad
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Outstanding advice and included the danger involved if I continue to drive without getting the tie rod(s) or ball joint fixed. Thanks- | ||
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Answers by Expert:
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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