Steering Wheel Play How to Repair?

3

31ma

Junior Member
Any suggestions in what parts to keep and what parts to change in order to repair the steering Wheel play? And costs of parts?
 
The first thing to do is try adjusting it following the directions
in the "Service Bulletins" and see what that does.

Bob
 
Steering wheel play can come from a lot of different spots. Check the balls at each connection of your steering linkage first. I have yet to see a Model A that wasn't in need of having these replaced unless it was already done. Be sure to use the "weld in" versions of the replacement balls.

Once that is done, check your play in the steering box. I believe there are about 3-4 adjustments that can be done there. If you decide to rebuild the box, call up Bert's and order a complete kit so you can simply replace everything that is replaceable. There are a number of really good articles out there on how to do this and I believe one of Les Andrew's books(1) has a detailed description on how to as well.

Getting the lash under control is not hard, but it can be a bit time consuming. None of the parts are particularly expensive and when you are done, your car will drive much nicer.
 
Based on your sign on name, I assume you have a 31 A. If so then it should be a 2 tooth column. If not a 31or 30 then it may be a 7 tooth. Depending on what it is would determine how to adjust. Then find a book like suggested and go for it. How to describe how to do it on here.
 
There were just a couple of threads on this a search will turn up the details on how to adjust the steering to see if that will fix it before you spend big bucks on parts.
 
start with the front wheel bearings and work your way back to the steering box. Every part can contribute to a loose play at the steering wheel, and all need to be checked. Les andrews addresses this in his maintenance manual, a good starting point.
Let us know what you learn.
Bob
 
also always check for play at the sector of steering box to pitman arm connection. sometimes an overlooked but common area for movement. with the wheels on the ground have another person move your freeplay at the steering wheel and check that. its just a matter of tightening the bolt and nut if there is. a complete steering box o/h can cost around 400 doing it yourself
 
You can find the Model A service bulletins in book form from many vendors. There is one that is in 8-1/2" x 11" format; which is easier to read than in the standard book form. However, some state it is out of print.

I believe they were also printed and placed in a three-ring binder, but those too may not be available anymore.

The book form is readily available.
 
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