36 Ford 4 door sedan drag link question

davids2toys

Senior Member
I am new to this car, bought it from the original owner. it is an unrestored driver. The steering was stopping halfway thru its travel when turning left. Turns out the adjustable end of the drag link is smashing into the oil pan, specifically the bolt head. The motor is a 49-53 Mercury flat-head. The oil pan is not punctured thru but is very deeply gouged. I cant find a diagram online of the proper orientation of this part. I have seen some pics of the adjustment sleeve end on the passenger side, mine is on the drivers side. Also wondering if I could just loosen the adjustment and rotate the sleeve a little? Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks...Dave
 
Several Photos ( differing views, parts, and turn positions ) may bring some accurate assessments.
 
You might be able to rotate the adjustment sleeve away from the pan but the Mercury pan was never a great choice for this application. Try looking for a '48 thru '50 pickup pan. These are also known as a "step" pan due to the rear sump and the graduated steps on the front. This will allow the drag link to function with plenty of clearance.
 
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