front wheels shake after a bump.

H

HCash

Junior Member
The 31 Coupe is running perfectly but I have 2 problems. First, the front wheels shimmy and shake almost violently after hitting a bump. Everything seems tight in the front end and have about 4 inches free play in the steering wheel. What do I need to do to solve this problem.
My second problem is I am unable to get the gas gauge to quit leaking. I put a gasket kit in but it still seeps. Any and all advise would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Harv
 
first problem to truley fix it you need to go over every joint with a fine tooth comb in the front end, check the balls for roundness on the tierod ends and drag link ends. check to make sure the spindles have NO slop.

if you have 4inches of slop in the steering does the pitman arm move when you detect these 4" of slop?

the shimmying is most likely caused by worn out shackles and mainly the wishbone ball that goes to under the transmission is not round anymore or not tight (most likely not round)

gas gauge can seep if its not reassembled correctly, i seem to recall some people put a thin layer of grease on the cork seal to help it seat and seal.
 
Here is some information on the "Death Wobble" that I have posted in the past. Perhaps it will help.

With all four wheels on the ground.
Have a very patient friend sit in the drivers seat while you are under the car looking EVERYTHING over. Have them move the steering wheel back and forth over and over again bumping the steering wheel each way just enough to almost move the wheels. Look for any and all movement. When you do find something(s) loose fix it and the shimmy will go away.
Could be....
Too much play in steering box.
Bolts holding steering box to frame loose.
Bolt holding steering arm not tight enough.
Slop in the ends of the pitman and/or tie rod.
Wishbone ball worn.
After market rubber boot on wish bone ball bad. (get rid of it and go back to original)
Spring perch(s) loose in axle.
Front spring u-bolts loose.
King pins worn.
Front wheel bearings worn/loose.
Front backing plates loose.
Toe in not right.

Others will chime in with suggestions.
Do a search for Death Wobble and you will find lots of information.
 
I use a little bit of pancake syrup smeared on the cork and parts when I put a gas gauge together and "knock on wood" have never had any leaks since I started using it.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top