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Steering Crank-Arm Restoration
Materials used :
- Standard automotive tools (socket-wrenches, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, etc.)
- Jack and jack-stands
- Grease gun
- Heavy gear-lube
- Tap-hammer
- Bench vise
- Replacement steering center pivot-pin
- Replacement bearings
- Replacement cotter pins
- Anti-seize compound
- Eye protection
- Protective gloves
Note :
Always wear eye protection when working with hammers, power tools or pneumatic tools.
The original Packard replacement bearings came packed inside a housing with a felt washer that, in theory, served to maintain the lubrication on the bearings. In fact, this "bicycle style" set-up resulted in water getting trapped and eventually rusting out the bearings.
The modern replacements are permanently sealed and protected from moisture and rust.
Replacement center-pivot arms were available from Packard as well. Ideally the pivot-arm assembly should operate with no "play" and with a nice, even swing.
Procedure :
- With our crank-arm assembly removed from the vehicle, we stabilized it in the workbench vise and cleaned it up using spray cleaner.
- Use a punch and hammer to carefully tap the old bearing out of the assembly, then clean out the portion of the arm that holds the bearing.
- Add some fresh grease to the top replacement bearing and gently tap it into place. Repeat the process for the bottom-bearing.
- To check the tie-rod ends for integrity, work the ball-and-socket joints back and forth, and up and down, to make certain that the joints are tight, and without play. Excessive play in this assembly would translate into loose steering when the vehicle is driven.
- Clean and then re-grease the grease fittings with a grease gun before reinstalling the assembly onto the car. It's important to clean the fittings before re-greasing to avoid forcing dirt and debris into the fittings with the new grease.
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