1940 Ford Coupe wheel alignment and steering wheel centering

[Zax40]

IIRC tightening, or shortening the drag link should rotate the steering wheel to the left.

 

[19Fordy]

Not sure if this will help but, here's what the drag link and tie rod set up looks like on my 40. To center my steering wheel, I adjusted the drag link that attaches to the splined steering arm part # 11A 3590-A that attaches to the steering box.

 

[glennpm]

Kube, Mike,
I have tried turning in both directions and can’t get the steering wheel in the sweet spot.
You are limited because of spindle orientation .
Turning the tie rod to where the steering would be centered makes it impossible to attach to spindle.
Thanks Tom.

Tom, I'd buy the one from Joe's and with it you will have fine adjustment. As Mart points out, without the sleeve, you have to make a full 360° rotation only, which isn't get you centered. If you have a show car stay with what you have but if you're driving it, and the wheel is driving you crazy, get one with the adjustable sleeve.



https://www.joesantiqueauto.com/drag-link-11y-3306

 

[Zax40]

I found my notes were still on my work bench from when I replaced my drag link a couple weeks ago. My old drag link when removed (steering was centered) was 32 9/16 when measuring from the outside of the lube fitting to outside of lube fitting on far end. This won't be exact for every 40 Ford but it might help get you in the ball park.

 

[Kube]

Kube, Mike,
I have tried turning in both directions and can’t get the steering wheel in the sweet spot.
You are limited because of spindle orientation .
Turning the tie rod to where the steering would be centered makes it impossible to attach to spindle.
Thanks Tom.

Post #20 is spot on with that advice. It sometimes takes me three times to get it right.

 

[std1940]

I would like to thank everyone for their ideas,advice guidance and suggestions!
Tom.

 

[Gene1949]

find another alignment shop.