63 Front end shimmy/shake

[Chuck R.]

Re: 63 Front end shimmy/shake

I would rule out the driveline then and focus on the front end.

Up and down usually sends me looking at components that also can move vertically such as the tires, rims, contol arms, ball joints, springs, shocks, etc.

Side to side usually dictated components that moved horizontally such as tie rod ends, idler arm, drag link, damper, steering box, rag joint, etc. If it's a power steering car I'd even give that a once over.

Anything felt through the seat of your pants or floor boards sent me looking at the driveline components such as the clutch/pressure plate, drive shaft, half shafts, etc.

Flukey things CAN happen that can contradict my rule of thumb, but generally speaking, my kill ratio for chasing down these types of issues over the years has been pretty high.

Probably preaching to the choir on this but what the hey, I just love rambling on and on and on Hey I know my short comings

Chuck

[Larry S.]

Re: 63 Front end shimmy/shake

Harry,
Check carefully the frame in the frontal area for cracks or broken weld that could be causing a vibration. Also check your motor mounts and /or the transmission mount. Can you differentiate if you feel it in the seat or steering wheel more strongly? If in the seat, perhaps a bad U-joint?

[Harry S.]

Re: 63 Front end shimmy/shake

Larry, nothing in the seat. I changed the upper and lower ball joints on the right side today. It may be my imagination but I think it's a little better. I'll attack the left side tomorrow then another test ride.

If any of you have not tried taking out original rivets on the upper ball joints, just wait your in for a treat. What a PITA. It took me 5 hours to get the whole job done. I took my time and that included cleanup. Oh yes, I did not shed any blood.

[Chuck R.]

Re: The only blood letting allowed Harry

Is when we take the initial plunge into the wonderful world of Corvettes.

If the proceedure is performed correctly, you should be totally devoid of any red corpusels by the time you park it the garage for the first time

Larry has a good point, I would also check the welded ears where the control arms bolt up.

Seeing as your working in these areas, I'm sure that anything like a weld separation would catch your eye.

Chuck

[Harry S.]

Re: 63 Front end shimmy/shake

Well, finished the left side today in 3.5 hours, experience saved me 1.5 hours.

The ride is significantly better, but there is still some vibration between 62 and 64. I think the next step is an alignment to pull it together. I have to wait 3 weeks for that as I'll be away.

If there is still vibration after that then I need to look closer for broken welds, drive shaft, front hubs and believe it or not the slave cylinder and the P/S valve. As well as many of your other suggestions!

Any thoughts?

Thanks