Steering Problems
 

I have a 65 that is having steering issues. It tracks well, but I have to tug at the wheel to make it start to turn. Once it has turned I have to tug to get it to return to strait. I just replaced the steering box, but that didn't affect it. I am beginning to think that it is the tires, because they are 205s with 6 1/2" tread width. Maybe it has to do with caster? Has anyone had this experience?

Re: Steering Problems
 

Does sound like an allignment problem to me. Could have toe out instead of toe in or might have negative caster instead of positive caster. My bet is when it's alligned properly that the problem will disappear.

Rev

Re: Steering Problems
 

Ah yes i have had this problem with my 65, it is in fact the allignment. .or atleast in my case ended up haveing to do it myself. every time i took it to someone they f&cked it up worse than it was. make sure no one touches the strut rods!!! big problem with that. even the guy that has done the allignment on it for the last 15yrs messed it up. if you need the allignment specs let me know. i have them somewhere just have to look for them.
matt

Re: Steering Problems
 

On the '65-66's, both caster and camber are adjusted with shims between the upper suspension arm and the mounting surface. The strut rods are non adjustable and should be set right just by torquing them down. I did do my own alignment also, but it took a lot of trial and error and was a pain in the rear. Any front end shop should be able to do the allignment if they are willing to spend the time to do it right.

Rev

Re: Steering Problems
 

Rev, Matt,

Thank you for your responses. I will be taking the car to an alignment place that is recommended by my boss. I found some alignment specs on the internet, but would love to see what they did for you. I am glad to see there is support for these cars!

Re: Steering Problems
 

I would like to get the alignment specs. if it is not too much trouble. Don't spend too much time on it though. I appreciate the input.

Re: Steering Problems
 

Here you go,directly from the 1966 Comet,Falcon,Fairlane and Mustang shop manual.

For Mustangs with V-8 engines:

Caster: -1 to +1 degrees, ideal is 0 degrees
Camber: -1/4 to +1 1/4 degrees, ideal is +1/2 degree
Toe in: 1/8 inch to 3/8 inch, ideal is 1/4 inch

I set mine at different settings than those recommended.

Caster +2 degrees
Camber 0 degrees
Toe in 1/16 to 1/8 inch

Those settings work well for me.

Rev

Re: Steering Problems
 

sounds like its alginment problem just to let you guys know if u didnt know already its alway a good idea to have just a lilbit less caster on the left side because of road crown...i have done a alginment on one of thoes at work befor there not funn make sure u get a print out of the specs after they adjust it.. any lazy mechanic can make it drive straight without it being in spec...good luck