Steering Issues after minor Collision
 

Hello all

Last weekend during the storm my 86 hydroplaned in a roundabout and the front right wheel hit a curb bending the control arm (Which I have now replaced), along with that, I had gotten an alignment done yesterday. Post all of this, I have been having some issues with my steering on the right side, this side feels heavier to move, and when turned and letting go of the wheel, the wheel will not return back to the neutral position and stays turned (doing a little wobble). Furthermore, when in the neutral position, if you pull down slightly and release, the wheel will wobble (Video attached). Wondering how I should go about getting these issues resolved.

Thank you!

https://youtu.be/i3TOYGEogNs (link to the wobble)

did you inspect the wheel and tire ?

I recommend inspecting the outer tie rods

Yes, the rim wasnt bent and the tire was still in good shape

Alright, I will check them out

I attached 2 images I took of the tie rods, anything look off?

Did you re-balance the wheel after the accident?

I’m not 100% sure, but that large grease splatter below the tie rods looks pretty fresh.

I'd suggest you rotate the wheels (front to back) just to insure a wheel/tire isn't causing the problem.

If that doesn't do it, I'd suggest you have the right front wheel bearing and assembly inspected closely.

I’d assume that is a byproduct of having the alignment done.

Personally, I’m concerned about the multiple shiny threads on the tie rods. Requiring that much lengthening to correct the toe makes me think you still have bent/broken parts under there. Strut, spindle, steering rack, subframe have it all checked.

Also, as previously suggested by another, have the wheel rebalanced if it hasn’t been. And, remove the tire from the rim and have both inspected if that wasn’t done as well.

If the rim was bent the tire was probably damaged also. You can not see internal stress on the tire. I would replace tire and make sure they balance correct. Do you have post accident alignment numbers?

Not really, that's like 2.5 turns. Nothing to worry about on a new control arm install after a bash.

Now, about the original issue (s). A wheel balancing is ALWAYS recommended after a hit even if nothing seems visually bent. As for the steering effort, well...

Says the repair manual.