This is topic front end "slop" in forum Tech Talk at Northern California Ford Owners  .


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Posted by Jdub07 (Member # 2728) on :
 
what is the best way to be rid of the front end steering slop. Steering wheel moved quite a distance before the actual wheels do.

72 mustang coupe
 
Posted by 68stanger (Member # 7842) on :
 
on the top of the steering box there should be a set screw with a nut on it. you can tighten up the steering by messing with that screw.

put the front end on jack stands, then straighten the wheels. now give the set screw 1/4 turn then lock it in place, do that then give it a go around the block to get a feel of how it changed and how much it needs to be adjusted. do that until the steering is firm to your liking. any adjustments that are made, are done with the wheels centered. after you have it where you want it, give it a final 1/4 turn and lock it back in place.

also would change out tie rods and other related parts first.... if needed.
 
Posted by Jdub07 (Member # 2728) on :
 
thanks will give it a go
 
Posted by 92stangLX (Member # 3252) on :
 
Check all your bushings on the front end.. especially the rack bushings.
 
Posted by fasthatch (Member # 7277) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by 68stanger:
on the top of the steering box there should be a set screw with a nut on it. you can tighten up the steering by messing with that screw.

put the front end on jack stands, then straighten the wheels. now give the set screw 1/4 turn then lock it in place, do that then give it a go around the block to get a feel of how it changed and how much it needs to be adjusted. do that until the steering is firm to your liking. any adjustments that are made, are done with the wheels centered. after you have it where you want it, give it a final 1/4 turn and lock it back in place.

also would change out tie rods and other related parts first.... if needed.
this is what i would but i would also check for fluid leaking from the gear box if there is i would replace it to.
and did you ever get the no starting problem fixed
 
Posted by Duncan Motors (Member # 7045) on :
 
the rag joint on these cars are normally toast by now, if never changed from the first one. and if the steering box is loose i personally would get a new one. to many <if chances> on what to go out inside one. and the idler arm always goes out every 3 years of normal driveing. these are most 3 most common things to go out on these older mustangs of those years.
 
Posted by Jdub07 (Member # 2728) on :
 
Yeah the main resistor wire was toasted and had to be replaced. That is why it wouldn't start. Was weird.

Put a whole new exhaust on it too. Just some two chamber flow with pipe out the back and turned down tips.

Now its getting a new stereo system put in but that seems to be some kind of debacle (spelling). Hopefully i can get it back soon and drive this bitch.
 
Posted by 68dustin (Member # 5388) on :
 
i just noticed my 68 box is leaking.. im trying to figure out what i want to do next.. anyone every try flaming river steering box?? im tired of having a dead spot on the freeway
 
Posted by Maxoctane (Member # 1466) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Duncan Motors:
the rag joint on these cars are normally toast by now, if never changed from the first one. and if the steering box is loose i personally would get a new one. to many <if chances> on what to go out inside one. and the idler arm always goes out every 3 years of normal driveing. these are most 3 most common things to go out on these older mustangs of those years.
+1 Rag joint is probably the most neglected and ignored part of the steering system on these older cars.
 




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