Technical 1946 Ford Steering Issue

*Ok first off this is my second posting on this problem, the first one has been deleted. I don't know why, I've seen other posts like min.

I have a 46 ford coupe frame with an aftermarket Mustang II crossmember, stock upper control arms and spindles, tubular lower control arms, and uncut coil springs. I purchased a stock rack and pinion from an 88 Thunderbird for the steering. Yesterday I got the rack put in and connected the tie rods. With the steering centered as best I could (No steering column) i adjusted the toe. I eventually ran out of threads on the inner rod and both wheels where still toed out. What is my problem and how do i fix it? Thanks!

 

I saw your first thread and noted a post which referenced the fact there are different length tie rod ends, depending on application. That would be a good place to start you research.
The major chain parts companies have part descriptions and dimension shown for many of their items.

Ray

 

They use to make rack extensions so you would not have bump steer, I don't know if they are still available.

 

I left this on you other post, are your tie rod ends longer than this;

http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Mustang-II-Outer-Tie-Rod-End,2105.html

• 3.40" long from stud centerline to end

 

I've had a major headache today and haven't gotten around to the car today but as soon as I can I'll measure them and I'll let yall know! Thanks for the help!

 

If I measured correctly its 6" from the stud centerline to the end of the tie rod! I believe that may be my problem! Thanks guys!

 

I had forgotten about this. The MMII crossmember may be wider than the stock dimension (56" track) to accommodate the wider track of your Ford. I ordered a 58" unit some years ago and it came with a rack extension....basically a spacer that screws onto the end of the rack and then accepts the tie rod.

Different tie rod ends may solve your problem, but the rack extension is something to keep in mind.

Ray

 

Thanks for the info but I don't need extensions. It's the stock rod ends that are too long! I have them all the way in and the tires still point outward! Thanks! And for when I build another one I'll have that for future reference!

 

I know this is not tradtional but seems popular. On my 1948 Chevy panel truck with SBC I used the same set up you have. T-Bird rack and MMII kit. Haven't driven the panel truck but it steers and drives in the yard.
Remember God created Ford. But when he created Chevy he got it right! He called it Camaro!

 

You are correct, of course.....brain fade on my part. You said toe-out and at some point I knew that.....and then....pfffft...it was gone! My solution addresses excessive toe-in. Sorry.

Ray