65 Thunderbird Steering...plz Help

[65flarerat]

I'm brand new to this...and I have a problem with my steering...seems like i have a lot of play when driving, always gotta correct myself back and forth...looks like im drunk if you're following behind...im scared to take it on the freeway or at high speeds because of the play/steering. The guy i bought it from told me to loosen the steering box nut and tighten the screw with a flat head clockwise and it should do the trick...I've tried and "dang" that is a hard screw to turn...Can anyone help me please...thank you


flareRat

[Harley Eaton]

A bad idler arm bushing will cause the problem you describe. ave you checked your steering components under the car for looseness? I would start there. Do you have a shop manual? Have you consulted your shop manual?

[Cdhowell]

Have someone rock the steering wheel back and forth while you look at the componets. Fix the loose stuff and have it aligned.

[Harley Eaton]

Good idea. Remember to look at the flexible joint between the gearbox and the steering shaft. The one under the brake booster.

[65flarerat]

thanks guys...let me give that a shot!

[65flarerat]

you boys know where i can get a Shop Manual?

[redbird1]

Originally Posted by 65flarerat

you boys know where i can get a Shop Manual?

Ebay motors has them all the time.
They usually sell for around 40 bucks.
Bob.

[Harley Eaton]

65flarerat: I'[ve got your shop manual. See your messages.

[msmc18975]

We have the same problem, the screw had already been tightened as far as it would go so we had a new steering box installed, sorry to say that did not work either. We have also had the front end aligned. Not sure what the next step would be. We are going to turn the screw again, we have been told that if you have the front tires turned in just a tiny bit the car will respond better. We are not ready to try that, YET ! Good luck, if you solve the problem please post your solution.