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Classic/Antique Car Repair/steering box 1952 chevy deluxe

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Expert: - 1/28/2010


Question
Is there way to adjust the play on my chevy steering wheel? I have at least 5-6" of play either way I turn the steering wheel. Your help on this matter will be greatly appreciated.Thank you.  

Answer
There is an adjustment on the steering box but before touching it check all the steering linkage and the tie rod end as well as the king pins for looseness. This model Chevrolet had a center pivot for the tie rods and steering link to connect to. It is mounted to the middle of the front cross member right under the engine. This frequently wore and caused loose steering. If all is well the steering gear box can be adjusted but only after you make sure all the linkage is tight. To adjust the box jack the front end up and under the hood on the top of the box loosen the lock nut on the adjusting screw. Turn the screw down while some one is rocking the steering wheel back and forth. Stop adjusting when there is about a quarter of an inch of play and tighten the lock nut. Then turn the wheel full right and left feeling for any binding. If there is the box is worn internally and needs attention.

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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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