Mike:
Really common problem, really easy fix.
The rear axle U bolts tend to work loose as the rubber pads harden and
compress.
Unless you know what you are looking for, it's a tough one to catch as
the bolts are going to feel tight.
Back the nuts off a tad, then retighten. That should do the trick. Be
aware that the bolts may shear, or may be worn where they meet the pad
supports. So if they look a bit iffy, plan on buying new bits before
starting the job.
The real fix is to install new pads (this is where I recommend Poly
ones) with new U bolts and nuts.
After the new U bolts have been installed for a couple of weeks, give
them an extra tighten to take up any compression and you won't have the
problem again.
Kelvin.
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-mgs@autox.team.net [mailto:owner-mgs@autox.team.net] On
Behalf Of Mike Torrusio
Sent: Tuesday, February 21, 2006 9:32 AM
To: mgs@autox.team.net
Subject: And, I make S curves as I drive down the road
In keeping with my non-standard problems (okay, so I do have one - my
hand brake never holds for more than two days after being adjusted),
let me ask advise on this strange event:
Driving along at a steady pace, let's say 65 mph, the car is steady.
Looking to pass, you press down on the pedal and - the car makes a
quick but gentle "swerve" to first the right, then the left, then
settles down.
As you finish passing, you ease back on the pedal and - the car makes
a quick but gentle "swerve" to first the right, then the left, then
settles down.
Now, I may have the direction of first swerve backwards, but the
action is as described.
In fact, by playing with the gas pedal, I can kind of do a little
sashaying down the road.
Any ideas?
Facts: The car has had one new kingpin - on the right, the other is
tight. Two new tie-rods and one something else ( I can't remember
what it was but it allowed the right wheel to shake) and has just
passed inspection at VIP - who failed it three times before issuing
the sticker. The tires are about half worn - evenly, and there is no
play (to speak of) if I grab the steering wheel and pull up and
down. The front springs are new as are the front shocks.
Cordially,
Mike Torrusio
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