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FE Power Forums => Non-FE Discussion Forum => Topic started by: Dan859 on June 28, 2016, 08:50:00 AM

Title: steering problem
Post by: Dan859 on June 28, 2016, 08:50:00 AM

Hi Everyone,
I just bought a 66 Fairlane, 351W(393CID), 5 speed.  The car is really in excellent condition and I'm very happy with it except for one problem.  It originally had power steering.  The previous owner removed the PS parts to make it manual.  The problem is that it takes a serious amount of effort to steer it, and it won't center itself when you release the steering wheel.  Short of replacing the steering box and linkage, what can I do to lighten up the steering effort?  Here's a picture  :)

Title: Re: steering problem
Post by: Dan859 on June 28, 2016, 08:50:55 AM

Sorry for the double post of the picture, I'm technologically challenged.

Title: Re: steering problem
Post by: Falcon67 on June 28, 2016, 09:14:16 AM

The PS box is like 16:1 ratio vs I think 22:1 manual.  So there's not a lot you can do.  First would be to raise the front, back off the center adjuster on the steering box a little and make sure you can turn lock to lock without binding.  Tighten up the adjuster till you get it just "snug" with the wheel centered.  Test lock to lock, you don't want any binding.  The PO may have cranked down on the adjuster to take play out of the steering.  That only works a little bit and will tear up the box if overdone.

Also caster - those cars REALLY drive better with 2~2 1/2 degree caster added.  Caster is what helps the car self-center when rolling.  All our hotrods here have no less than 2 1/2.  However, that may also increase steering effort, but should not a lot.  It should still be useable - my wife's 70 Mustang racer has a 351C and a small Grant wheel.  It was a PS car and still has the PS box.  It takes some effort sitting or moving real slow, but once moving it's pretty easy to drive.  She hasn't had any problem with it.  Granted the front tires are MT Front runners 4 x 27.5"

Alternative is also "Flaming River".

Great looking ride!

Title: Re: steering problem
Post by: BruceS on June 28, 2016, 09:28:20 AM

+1 with Falcon, I think he probably nailed it.  Assume the PO removed the p/s cylinder and control valve?  The cylinder would also cause drag if not removed.  Btw my '66 is not a racer but I've had the rebuilt stock p/s on it for 16 years and had no issues. 

Bruce

Title: Re: steering problem
Post by: Dan859 on June 30, 2016, 01:14:13 AM

Thanks for the help.  I'll get the alignment done and see what that does for it.