QuestionHi there. I have just bought a 1968 AMC Ambassador. It's a V8 column shift automatic car with power steering and brakes. My problem is that there seems to be too much play in the steering wheel. Assuming that 12 o'clock is the top, I can move the wheel to the left to 10 o'clock and to the right to 2 o'clock without the wheels turning. Once they start moving they're fine until I turn the other way and encounter the same amount of play. Can you tell me how best to diagnose the problem? Thank you.
AnswerI'm assuming you did this test with the engine running. If not, repeat the test with the engine idling to see if the play is any better.
Based on it being this bad with the engine on, you have a serious problem, and it is safety related, so you need to take the car (SLOWLY!) to an alignment or "frame" shop to have it further diagnosed. I can't guess which of about 5 different possible things could cause this without examining the car myself.
Try to find a long time locally owned (not a chain!) shop which has surly, gray haired mechanics with grease under their fingernails, who have worked on cars of this era. Modern cars have completely different steering systems, so only an old timer will be familiar with the type of steering on this car.
If you are really lucky, this will just require an adjustment of the steering box, but more likely (depending on the mileage on the car) there is a badly worn part or two in the steering linkage.
Don't take any chances by driving it this way - get it fixed before you hurt yourself or someone else!
If you happen to be in the San Diego area, I can recommend a very good shop. Post a follow-up question to me and I'll give you the name, if that is the case.
Dick
