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Hard steering pacemaker convertable
  • DAVEN
    Posts: 25Greasemonkey
    Hudson 1950 pacemaker convertable 308/auto is very hard to steer. Car did wander but local shop alignment seemed to cure the wander. I see old posts that say that SWB car are hard to steer. Is there a differance in the CENTERPOINT arm on the SWB vs LWB? better leverage? Anyone doing Power Steering Upgrade (rack&Pinion kit?)that might improve the steering?
    Would appreciate any help or comments.
    Dave
    dnn1942@msn.com
  • Jon BJon B
    Posts: 4,769Moderator
    You might also want to post this in the Hudson Forum, where some Hudson experts could weigh in on the subject. http://classiccar.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&func=showcat&catid=13&Itemid=129
  • DAVEN
    Posts: 25Greasemonkey
    Hi Jon
    Posted it twice....I think? Posted this for a local guy who just got finished with a beautiful Restoration. Has two LWB cars and they steer much easier.
  • Marconi
    Posts: 549Platinum Member
    Also check to see that your front springs haven't sagged too much. When you look at the upper A frames from under the hood they should be at 90 deg to the frame rails. Another way to check is to see what the clearance is between the top of the front tire tread and the bottom lip of the fender opening, you should almost be able to put your doubled up fist between the two, that is with your thumb on the top and little finger on the bottom. If they've sagged too much, your not turning the tires you're dragging them sideways. Also lubriation is important on these cars. The steering gear must have steering gear lube in it to be effective, chassis grease will NOT do. the gears channel thru the stuff and the gears run fairly dry. Lots of things to consider here. Good luck and let us know what you find.