New here, and problem with my new car!

ecthelion · 08-18-2009, 11:49 AM

Hi guys, I'm new here. I have a problem; I just bought a 1968 fairlane torino 500 gt with 352w engine. I brought it to the garage because my power steering broke down, and then the mechanic said; hey, you know there's some movement in the steering wheel? I said meh, show me. he pulled a little on the wheel and all of a sudden it came like 4 inches forward, axle and all. Is that a matter of a bolt or clip that came loose, or is it something really serious?

I tell, it's gotten me really nervous.

TBIRD430 · 08-18-2009, 03:07 PM

I'm guessing you mean he pulled on a front tire & wheel, not the steering wheel, corect?

ecthelion · 08-18-2009, 03:10 PM

no, i meant steering wheel. It still could turn the tires, so it's not completely detached or something.

ARS · 08-18-2009, 05:07 PM

In 1967 or 1968 all cars were required to have collapsible steering columns. It may be that the plastic shear pins that connect the input and output shafts are broken, but that may be a stretch (no pun intended). There should be an accordion-like portion of the column or inner and outer sleeves. Check and see if it looks like it has been collapsed. The column or car may have been a front end collision.

iwantmore · 08-18-2009, 07:20 PM

There is a rag joint that could allow a couple inches movement. Might look like 4 when your eyes are bugged out from seeing it. It is in the engine compartment just above the box. I think it is a clip that should keep the shaft from coming up. That is going to play havoc on your turn signal too.