TR2/3/3A Aligning steering wheel on TR3A

[Lukens]

My steering wheel is off, maybe 5 degrees. After reading the procedure for removing the steering wheel, I wonder if it would be wiser (simpler) to correct the alignment by tweaking the tie rods. What say the experts?
Russ

 

[Geo Hahn]

Not claiming to be an expert -- but ideally you want those tie rods close to centered to preserve the characteristics of the steering geometry (someone will mention Ackerman and when they do then you have likely found the expert you seek).

Try turning your steering wheel fully each way (lock to lock) and work out where the center of its movement is (easier with the front wheels off the ground). Hopefully the wheel is close to the straight-ahead position at the middle of the turns.

Yeah, it is a bit of a PITA to pull the wheel because of the control head and (my opinion) 5° isn't much (less than ¾"). On that small a tweak you may be able to sort it at the tie-rods.

 

[CJD]

Unless the wheel was installed wrong to begin with, it will need to be straightened at the tie rods. Look things over well in the front suspension, as there is usually a reason when the wheel is off center.

Simply pulling the wheel and moving a notch changes the steering geometry...not a good idea.

John

 

[sp53]

If you do not like aliening your own front end, you can take it to a shop for a simple alignment, but they might come back with a list of stuff they want to do. If things are good, Tr3s have very simple and straight forward suspension, and they will set the wheel when they move the tie rods. Who knows perhaps PO hit something. Five degrees is not much and I would probably live with it, but I understand I like things to be right on also.