| DadsFord | -- 03-28-2013 @ 8:10 AM |
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After not being driven for 10-12 years my dad's 1938 Ford Tudor Deluxe is running. However, the steering is harder than I remember, and the brakes seem to lockup when applied (can be unlocked by backing up). Is this normal, how can it be fixed? Note--all work was done by a mechanic with background in old cars. Thanks, Taz Taz
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| TomO | -- 03-28-2013 @ 8:17 AM |
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These cars all steer hard when the wheels are not moving. If it steers hard going down the road, check for grease in all of the fittings and the correct lube in the gear box. Also check tire pressure. I keep my tires inflated to 32#. Old tires can also make it hard to steer. Tom
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| ford38v8 | -- 03-28-2013 @ 9:59 AM |
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The brake drums have surface rust from sitting unused over the years. Just a little use will free them up. Alan
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| supereal | -- 03-28-2013 @ 10:15 AM |
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If your car still has mechanical (cable) brakes, it is likely that the cables have rusted in their covers, While exercising the brakes may eventually free them up, one or more will probably fail to fully release as you drive, causing possible loss of control. Penetrating oil may help, given time to work. I'd pull all the drums to be sure that there is no extensive rust there, as well. Any vehicle that has sat unused for a decade or more needs a thorough inspection and replacement of belts, hoses and, probably, tires. Time and ozone has likely weakened them beyond reliable use. This message was edited by supereal on 3-28-13 @ 10:16 AM
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