Good to be back again...with a 'new' Escort (see pics)

[oysta]

Hi guys,

Well after being absent for a couple years it's good to be back...this time with a '77 Esky.

I'm located in Adelaide (South) for my fellow Esky community.

And now for my first issue :(
The steering is quite loose when driving. I can wobble the steering wheel with no reaction from the wheels. My previous mk2 was quite tight.
When stationary, it's doesn't seem to have any play.
Tie rod ends? rubber rack mounts? rack/pinion? Where to start?

Cheers

Oysta

[wicko]

Could be all of those - I'd start by putting it off the ground and getting someone to turn the wheel while you look up at what is/isn't happening.

They are pretty basic so you should be able to make some big imrpovements pretty quickly. Don't discount well worn rubbers either.

Local Tyre Franchise told me I needed a new balljoint, 2 mechanics and a suspension shop later and no one reckoned the ball joint was bad. I got the kids to swing on the wheel and guess what - Ball Joint!

[XP6]

What are the front tyres like?(are they the same type tread with even wear)

[oysta]

Originally Posted by XP6

What are the front tyres like?(are they the same type tread with even wear)

Yeah, tires are the same tread and wear. However they are quite wide, I think they're 205's from memory...same front and back.
What I dread is starting to replace parts only to find I've changed a handful of items before finally getting to the culprit...Murphy's Law.

[feral]

He's not exactly close to you, but Mike Dale of Mike Dale Automotive in Holden Hill has raced escorts for years and knows them back to front. If you went and saw him, I am sure you will get a no bs answer. There are a few boys from down south over here who may be able to point you to someone closer:

http://www.classic-ford.org/forum/

[oysta]

Thanks Feral

[oysta]

So had a look under the esky while the lady turned the wheel. The steering rack mount bushes look like they've had it and the whole rack moves side-to-side. So I think I'll start with some new bushes. I'm leaning towards Super Pro. Anybody have any opinions, experience, recommendations with brands?

Adam

[thebecbec]

Try Smcka Performance based in Sydney, but they have an online shop www.classicescortparts.com.au

Not sure about bushes, but they sell an amazing quick rack for about $250 from memory.

[oysta]

Ended up getting a pair of nolathanes for $30 from Motormate. Was quoted $42 for super pro. I've heard Nolathane bushes have a stiffer material which can create a harsher ride but seeing these are going into the steering rack mount rather than absorbing impact somewhere in the suspension I think they should be ok. Now to install them...job for the weekend.

[cram72]

I got a complete kit of superpro for 300 bucks off ebay, did whole car and steering knuckle.

[CSWTH1]

It looks like a good car straight body etc you must be happy with that despite a couple of small problems, good luck with it mate

[oysta]

Indeed I am happy. What fun would it be without a few problems