C2 Steering boxes

[W F.]

Hello. New member here, with a question. I am in the market for a 65 or 66 convertible. I have look at a lot of cars, and I've noticed something that I cannot find an explanation for. When I rock the steering wheel a few inches, I've noticed that the steering box rocks on the frame. In some cars, the rock also moves the engine mount arm next to the box mount, and the engine actually moves. When I show this to the owner, none has ever seen or noticed this before. Box mount bolts are tight in all cases. I have searched, and cannot find any technical discussion on this. Happens on manual or power steering cars. What's up with this? I'm glad to be new member, and welcome any responses.

Clyde Fowler

[Bill W.]

Re: C2 Steering boxes

Clyde,
The steering box is bolted to the frame using 3 bolts. The frame is not reinforced in this area. I suspect the force applied to this area over the years is taking it's toll on the metal. My 1966 small block coupe has been driven with care and regular maintenance since I bought it new and I can see very slight movement of my steering box after 120 K miles. Another thing which has probably not helped is wide radial tires. The extra traction which they generate increases the force applied by the box at it's mounting point on the frame. I will be willing to bet that if you mount a pair of skinny OEM tires on the front all movement of box/engine will go away. I have considered reinforcing this area on my car, but unless I see a crack at one of the bolt holes, probably won't. I'll also bet that some of our old racers are aware of this and know how to deal with the problem. Let's see if any of them chime in. Bill

[W F.]

Re: C2 Steering boxes

Thanks, Bill. Interesting problem. I guess I have to remember I'm looking at a 43 year old car. Thanks for the response!

[Philip C.]

Re: C2 Steering boxes

Hi if the engine moves when you turn the wheels, the frame is junk!. The frame has tubes between the inner and outer rail that the steering box bolts go thru this adds strength so the rails don't crush from the steering box bolts. NOWAY should a frame flex that easy. Phil 8063