Just installed my steering box on my 36 Terraplane, it was rebuilt by Lares Corp. Everything seems fine turning the steering wheel but not able to turn by the tires. The car is up on jack stands and is not driveable yet so can"t road test. I know it is a worm and sector type box so not sure if you should be able to turn from the pitman arm side of the box?
Hi Dan, I suspect the king pin are frozen and need replacing, probable dry from lack of regular suspension lubrication. Disconnect the tie rods from left and right steering arms. Disconnect drag link. Grip each front tire at one and three o'clock, you should be able to turn each wheel easily freely with out any effort in both directions stop to stop. If you should wanted to remove the brake drum the spindle should turn freely in one hand without effort. Also check tie rods and drag link ends closely for wear.
The ratio and pitch of the gears is such that you cannot necessarily turn the wheels from side to side with it jacked up, there is simply too much friction to overcome. If it turns freely from lock to lock with the steering wheel with it jacked up it is most likely fine.
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