Hi guys, My 40 ford has stock steering, but for some reason my steering wheel has rotated from being straight across to being up and down, The steering column became loose where it is bolted to the dash, but apart from that I haven't changed anything, what could be doing it? Worn steering box? My 40 has also developed a scary shake which goes through the whole car when it gets to around 60mph, if I back off it goes away, could all this be related? Any feedback would be great, Cheers John Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
No rag joint in a stock '40 steering set-up. Sounds like the worm gear in the box has "re-oriented" itself. You have problems that showed up as a loose column drop. I would be inspecting that column from bottom to top...but the problem probably starts at the bottom. Can't tell you that the shake is related for sure but getting the steering box sorted would be first on my list.
Sounds like it is time to do a complete inspection of your front end. The shake could be from worn kingpins or loose steering components. Also check the tierod and drag link for loose, in case they have gone out of adjustment. Your steering box probably needs a rebuild or replacement. Good luck.
Yep something is loose that's where your shake is coming from and also why you lost center on your wheel it could be in the box itself or drag link or tie rod connecting points. To make the steering wheel be 1/2 a revolution off I'd say they is a good 1/8" or more play in it somewhere from the pitman arm out, It's not uncommon for them to have a little play in the box, but a half a turn is WAY, WAY bad if it's inside the box.
a lot of parts could contribute to the relocation of the steering wheel,worn tie rod ends,steering box worn or needing adjustment. Time to get under the car while up on jack stands and do some serious maintenance.HRP
Half a turn off would make 'scary shake" sound pretty minor if it's a problem down below. I would check the wheel first, someone might have left out the key so wheel is slowly migrating on its taper fit. '40 wheel has holes for normal wheel puller so this can be checked in like 2 minutes.
Several companies make adaptors to mount the GM box into the 35-40 Ford frame. I used the Pete and Jakes mount that had me take the original mount off and add theirs in place. I am using a vega box for my 36 covert. Using a stock steering column I used the 3/4 shaft to go into 2 universals that go to the vega box. the 3/4 shaft on mine is welded to a 3/4 universal, and then I pinned it for good measure. A short splined adaptor takes it to the 2nd joint that is attached to the box. My stock column needed to be cut shorter. I used the stock upper bushing at the top, and I have a flanged bearing at the bottom to fit the shaft and the column. I then added a collar below the bearing to keep it flush with the bottom of the column.
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