flivvert Posted December 9, 2011 Report Posted December 9, 2011 Hello, all, newbie here. I've got a '49 DeSoto Custom 4-dr with, shall we say, somewhat loose steering. With 89M miles on the clock, that's to be expected. What I'd like to know is if anyone can recommend a good front end shop/mechanic in the Twin Cities (MN) area. I wish I could do the work myself, but I don't have the tools, workplace or ability. Any leads will be very much appreciated. Regards, Flivvert Quote
Young Ed Posted December 9, 2011 Report Posted December 9, 2011 Dad and I have been taking our cars to HageKobany for alignments. However if something is wrong with them we put in our own parts. Quote
Plymouthy Adams Posted December 9, 2011 Report Posted December 9, 2011 welcome..not working on your on old car be be expensive proposition..however if you got a nice car and this is your only serious problem..you may come out ok..Kanter I think offers complete rebuild kits for the front end yet..upper and lower busings, king pins etc..these are not cheap but done and done right with the new parts, properly lubed thereafter..you should not ever have to worry about these parts again in your lifetime..brakes are another expense that can go off the wall if farmed out..I know of a person who was charged 1800.00 just for brakes..bad part is I drove the car before the brakes wee put on..oh it did have a master cylinder leak but the cars stopped fine and straight...so 1800 for a leak was a bit much in my book..doing it yourself can still hit the 400-500.00 mark.. Quote
Robert Horne Posted December 9, 2011 Report Posted December 9, 2011 Try to determine what is "loose". Maybe a steering box, tie rod end, bearing, etc. Having a idea of what part or parts need to be repaired or replaced will save you alot of expense. Quote
Rusty O'Toole Posted December 12, 2011 Report Posted December 12, 2011 (edited) Steering is apt to be somewhat vague compared to modern cars. On a 52 Chrysler with the same front end I counted 22 joints or wear points in the steering and suspension. If the front end is like new 3" or 4" of play at the steering wheel is normal. Check the bolts holding the steering box, don't overlook the bellcrank pivot either. Parts may be available from your local NAPA store, at least I got king pins and bushings for a 59 Ford pickup over the counter. If the front end checks out OK an alignment and a set of shocks will make it drive and ride much nicer. If the front end is worn replace parts as necessary. Edited December 12, 2011 by Rusty O'Toole Quote
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