Topic: Tie Rod Adjustment
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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Hi,
I just had my power steering piston replaced and the steering wheel is now not level. The bottom spoke is pointing at the gear shift. I am hoping to adjust the tie rods to bring it back into alignment, but I have two problems: 1) they may be rusted solid, 2) I don't know how to adjust the tie rod. I understand the basic concept is to loosen the clamps and turn the sleeve, but what do you use to turn the sleeve and which way do I turn it to get the steering wheel level and true again?
Thanks in advance,
Larry
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I would suggest getting the front end aligned, they will fix your steering wheel problem at the same time. Your probably looking at about $50.00 for the alignment. I would saturate your tie rods with WD40 or something before hand. Anytime you do any work on the front end it's not a bad idea to get an alignment, and they can sometimes find other problems for you. Check around and find a good shop. Maybe ask some Friends who they use.
Lonnie,
Okay, I'll take it back. I was hoping to do it myself. I'm worried they are going to want to change the entire front suspension, and after the expense of a new P/S piston, P/S control value, brake master cylinder, brake booster unit, rear trailing arm, calibers, rotor, spindle, and labor I just don’t know if I can afford it. I can handle $50 – I can’t handle $1,000. 
Just to get it out their and to get good opinions. When I have had my vette aligned I have been told it is important to align the rear first then they do the front?
The problem you may have is finding someone that knows how to align the rear. Camber is not to bad, but toe in on the rear scares the hell out of most of these guy's and they don't want to touch it.
I honestly have no idea. I guess I'll find out if the tires start wearing funny on the back.
I'm getting the impression I need to take it back to the shop. If you live it the Columbus OH area, what shop do you use?
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Mounds View, MN - USA
Joined: 5/24/2007
Posts: 1031
Vette(s): 70 LT1 coupe, 69 350 HP coupe, 69 390HP 427 coupe, 71 LS5 convert, 85 coupe, 93 coupe
It is unusual for the steering wheel to move that much when you replace the ram and valve.The ram doesn't have any effect, and a correct valve should go back exactly like it came off. Maybe you should ask them to recheck that they got the valve all the way on the center link. And make sure they didn't use a cheap imported valve.
Larry
Larry
Over $400 in 100% American made parts. I guess I should have mentioned why it was replaced -- the ram was bent. If fact it was bent so badly they had to cut the ram off in order to send back the core. That's why the steering alignment is now off. The ram is now straight, so everything shifted 1/2 inch to the right.
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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