<VV> steering question update

[shortle]

Hi Captain, 
I would jack the front end up, put it on SAFETY stands, and just visually look at everything. Look at the skinny steering rods. Are they bent as did they hit something (a curb)? They would show a recent mark if this happened recently. If all looks normal and the wheels turn freely (and true), I would disconnect the left and right side steering joints (tie rods) at the spindles and then with all the steering disconnected I would turn the wheels from 'lock to lock" (to check the upper and lower ball joints for any binding or stiffness). If that checks out turn the steering wheel lock to lock, it should be very easy to turn with everything disconnected and all the weight off the car. As part of your visual inspection check for signs of rust around the joints/tie rods. Let us know what if anything you find. Good luck and be careful.
Timothy Shortle in Durango Colorado 81301


-----Original Message-----
>From: judynrandy at comcast.net
>Sent: May 30, 2012 8:25 PM
>To: virtualvairs at corvair.org
>Subject: <VV> steering question update
>
>
>
>Thanks for your input.  My first thought was funky tire pressure.  I always run at 28 front and 38 back.  It handled very well prior to me letting my step-daughter use it the last couple of weeks.  I replaced the idler arm bushing awhile back.  It's been thoroughly maintained since i've owned it.  The steering box was pumped full of Amsoils' synthetic grease right after I got the car.  45,000 miles.  It now has 76,000 on it. 
>
>   Yes, when first starting out it is hard to steer.  Just like if both front tires were very low on air.  Then, as you increase speed it gets a little easier to steer but not a whole lot more.  I haven't had a chance to check anything yet and i'm inquiring about what direction to go.  This appears to be a "happened all of a once " kind of thing.  Come to think of it, my wife asked me a few days after my step-daughter took the car, "What that noise was when you turned the corner"?  Today, when I drove it, I heard no noise.  They have all gone to the airport this evening so no more info can be had until they return.  
>
>   Also, this car was a true 45,000 mile original  when I got it that sat from 1981 until 2010.  Until now, there have been no issues.  However, rotten suspension bushings and such can't be ruled out.  Also, I need some advice on how to check the suspension for worn parts as i've not had much experience in that area. 
>
>Thanks again for any input. 
>
>
>
>Randy (Cap'n) Hook 
>'65 monza 4dr 110/pg 
>
>'63 ragtop 84/pg
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