For years I thought that I had replaced my front pins and bushings when I first got my truck, as it had a broken spring that I did replace. But at the time I didn't know a bushing from a dip stick and to make a long story short I found the bushing/pin kit on the shelf a while back and finally got around to doing the work over the last couple days.. Now keep in mind I did replace or rebuild all steering components and steering box with the exception of the sector gear because I could not find anyone in the area that could press off the old gear, and with not any noticeable wear that is still on my to do list. OK, OK, I know Im getting to the bump steer. After the steering rebuild I was satisfied with the big improvement it made in my steering, and did not expect any noticeable difference by finally changing out the front spring pins and bushings, I thought that was as good as an old truck got but WOW, I was not ready for what happened after I did Its like a new truck, I can hit a bump or pot hole and no bump steer at all. I figured with all I had done previously done including castor, toe in, tie rod & ends, ball studs, drag link, pitman arm, NOS steering collum, new steering wheel, and kingpins, it would feel the same but no, no, no. If you are running a stock axle ans steering set up, do not forget about the pins and bushings. You will be amazed, I was. Now all I need to do is search out a machine shop to deal with my sector shaft and gear. PS While up ther I adjusted my brakes and that was another big wow, my pedal is as hard as could be, Im a happy guy. Thanks for listening.

 

You have turned into one heck of a mechanic Jimmy.

 

That stuff does happen...a friend spent mega bucks on his 56 build only to find out that the truck ate front tires like candy. He found that the lower control arm bushings had not been replaced when the rest of the work was done. Good to hear that you are now able to spot these faults early and save yourself some time and effort, you are in fact becoming a real mechanic!

 

That must be a really good feeling! As someone who is keeping the straight axle....it's encouraging for me as well

 

Much of the time beam axle naysayers is because of experiencing worn parts. Congrats that you are finally a happy camper! Keep everything lubed a couple times a year and you should stay that way for a long time. Did you also do the pins and bushings in the rear?

 

Way to go Ji
m. Truck progress is sounding good

 

Good to hear the truck is doing well, Jimmy. If there were problems with a straight axle configuration, we would not see so many of them running under OTR trucks.

 

I like feel good endings !
Tom

 

Jim, you are not just a happy guy -- YOU ARE A HAPPY MECHANIC ! a rebuilt 9 inch rear end now no bump steer! - what's next?? Have fun

 

Congratulations on your achievement, Jimmy! It's been a lot of work but is starting to sound like it's all paying off. At this point, I wouldn't get too excited about tearing the steering box back apart for that gear change. If it doesn't need it, and doesn't sound like it does, I'd put the gear on the shelf and not worry about it until such time as I've driven the wheels off of it and became an issue. It may outlast you. Drive it and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

 

Good work Jim, it is amazing how nice they drive when the front axle is held in place and not allowed to move where it wants with worn mounting points, e.g. the pins and bushings.

I concur with everyone else you are becoming a heck of a mechanic, don't worry it is both a blessing and a curse .

 

Its nice to wake up and see so many kind and encouraging posts, but I wouldn't go so far as to call myself a mechanic. No, I just do what you kind people suggest.. And your encouragement is what keeps me going. Ax to answer your question, yes I did replace the rears to, when I dropped the rear end, they had an inch or two of side play so that was a no brainer. I guess the next project will be to replace the cab mountings, but for now Im just going to break in the new rear end. Sounds like we might have some sort of get together next spring in No Calif. and if we do I want to be able to drive the truck. Any way thanks for every body's guidance and encouragement over the years, and have yourself a great weekend.

 

I mentioned in my Dollie thread that I drew encouragement from your success to take on that project. Jimmy, you are a tribute to what this forum is all about.

 

The cab mounts will be a piece of cake for you now, maybe a 1/2 day job. and make the ride more comfortable as well.

 

I`m real happy for you Jim, congratulants.