Where to start with over-steer??

[ubtripn]

Hi Folks,

I just replaced the shocks, tie-rod ends, idler arm, installed power-steering and put new, stock sized tires and rims on my 68 with an alignment and I still have a squirrly, over-steer problem.

Should I install a sway bar?

Could it be that I have the power-steering with the faster ratio (for lack of knowing the right term.)

I just don't know where to begin. She drives straight and I installed new upper and lower ball joints so I don't know what to do.

Thx for any advice.

[CC69Rat]

So it feels like a dump truck when you turn? The truck wants to go straight and the wheels want to turn?

[ubtripn]

Yeah, kind of, it leans heavily and just moving the steering wheel a couple of inches gets way too much response.

[mr48chev]

What did they set the caster at? Years ago when I did front end work and alignments for a living I found that not enough caster on some vehicles caused a condition similar to what you are experiencing and although the vehicle drove great at slow speeds it was twitchy and too sensitive to the slightest touch on the steering wheel.
If it takes off on it's own when the road surface changes you might still have something loose in the front end or steering.

[Boog]

This condition is common when going from non power steering to power steering. It takes some getting used to. I remember many years ago I put a power steering setup on a friends 1 ton ramp truck. He said on a couple of turns he nearly ran up on the curbside. He was so used to having to put so much effort into the old setup it took some getting used to the new one requiring less effort. Also the gear ratio in the standard and power sectors do differ some.
Now if it's a matter of the truck leaning too much on turns a sway bar will most definately help that. Just a front one is very noticeable.

[ubtripn]

Thanks friends, I will check the castor and get on installing a sway bar asap. Thanks again.

[lolife99]

Post up some pics of your tie rod assembly.

[ubtripn]

Ok, will do, it will be a little while. Thanks for the help =)

[airdale94]

Did you get a printout of the actual adjusted readings? If so what are they?

[CC69Rat]

Is it worse turning one direction vs another? Radial tires I guess or when you say 'stock' are you rrferring to bias ply?..

Does the truck sit level side to side? If something is wrong or possibly loose it could be dangerous to drive (?) It may not be to that extreme.. but, just thinking out loud.
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