OK, I need some help! I had my front suspension rebuilt about 6,000 miles ago. The parts (kingpins) were from a quality provider, but when the suspension was put back together the steering really takes a lot of effort. There is more. Because I never take my time when doing things, at the same time I put radial tires on the car.
The mechanic who did the work said after the rebuild that it would loosen up with some miles on it. It seems to me that 6,000 miles should have been sufficient break in?
I'm also told that the radial tires have more resistance at stop to rolling (5-10mph), and that bias ply tires would not provide as much resistance.
My conundrum: Have the suspension taken a part, additional tapering of the kingpins? OR Ditch the expensive radials and put bias ply tires on to improve steering?
I have looked in the service manual under "hard steering" and the check points are: 10 Steering knuckle bushings (new, so n/a?), 2) Steering knuckle thrust bearings (new again n/a?), 3) Tie rod ends (new), 4) Cross shaft (?), 5) Worm and tube assembly (told that it's possible this is original and has gummy junk in the box...?), 6) Jacket and jacket bushing (there doesn't seem to be any issue here as there isn't any noticeable binding).
Either way, I am looking at significant expense (front end again) or bailing on the radial tires (expensive Cokers). HELP! I'm really in need of suggestions and would appreciate any feedback to get me in the right direction for a solution!! Oh, and I should also mention that at freeways speeds the car tracks straight and requires little steering adjustment.