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1977 'Vette over-steering

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Old Nov 13, 2002 | 11:37 AM
  #1  
KNicholas2's Avatar
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From: Kent Wa
Default 1977 'Vette over-steering

I have not had my '77 coupe for long so I don't know if this is "normal" or not. The steering is very sensitive - almost too much so. It takes very little steering wheel movement to get a dramatic response on the road. This makes it uncomfortable at speeds of only 50-60 mph. Is this normal? If not, how do I "desensitize" the steering?

Thanks

Kim Nicholas
'77 coupe, black/black, 4 speed
Seattle
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Old Nov 13, 2002 | 01:19 PM
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Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (KNicholas2)

Definitely true :smash: of mine :smash: :smash: too. Very much a problem on the freeway especially on freeway.
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Old Nov 13, 2002 | 03:06 PM
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From: trample the weak...hurdle the dead SC
Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (SanDiegoPaul)

my '76 was the same, steered like a boat, I replaced the leaky power steering control valve and this cured it. I'm sure others will chime in w/ their opinions and experience. :cheers:
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Old Nov 13, 2002 | 03:29 PM
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Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (KNicholas2)

Have you tried aligning the wheels ? Wrong toe-in settings can cause kind of sensitivity you described.
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Old Nov 13, 2002 | 03:30 PM
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Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (KNicholas2)

check your rear suspension for worn bushings and alignment. :chevy
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Old Nov 13, 2002 | 05:01 PM
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Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (KNicholas2)

My 77 was very nice until I removed the rear sway bar for powder coating and rear bushes. I drove it without the bar and noticed it was twitchy at the back.
:nopity:
I suggest you check the bar and also the bushes in the strut rods.

Have you a shock thats leaky ... (look for fluid or damp area on shock).

If its twitchy its probably from the rear end area.

If its "notchy" its the steering system.

:cool: :cool: :cool:
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Old Nov 14, 2002 | 12:11 PM
  #7  
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From: Kent Wa
Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering

I have replace the rear wheel bearings and alligned the front end. Still over-steers and gets squirrley. The bushings seem ok. Any other thoughts or do I just live with it?

Kim Nicholas
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Old Nov 14, 2002 | 12:16 PM
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Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (KNicholas2)

A symptom of missalignment and wide tires! Don't trust alignment shops, most of them know nothing about our cars. Ask around and find somebody that will let you observe them aligning the car. Worn steering parts and suspension will only make the problem worse, if everything is in good shape and your alignment is correct you'll drive alot better even with wide tires and rutted, grooved roads.
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Old Nov 14, 2002 | 06:15 PM
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Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (KNicholas2)

Check your tie rod ends, idler arm etc.

What are you alignment specs? the shop should have given you a printout.

:cheers:
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Old Nov 14, 2002 | 06:40 PM
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From: CORVETTE 77 385 C.I. TEXAS
Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (clem zahrobsky)

check your rear suspension for worn bushings and alignment. :chevy
You should do 4 wh. alaign. The rear can affect. St. should be excellent if in excellent condition. Mine is great. Sports cars should have fast st.! You could also check st. play.

:cool:
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Old Nov 14, 2002 | 06:41 PM
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Default Re: 1977 'Vette over-steering (Chris O')

The thing that really gives the sensation of oversteering and dartyness is the toe setting. Check all the bushings and ball joints, check if all the castle nuts are tight and not missing the wire pin. If all checks out have a proper alignment done.

Indeed, sports cars should have fast steering but not unressponsive or too much assisted, I absolutely hate that tip-touch steering sensation. With the lack of resistance it's hard to "feel" the car.

Marck


[Modified by Twin_Turbo, 5:16 PM 11/15/2002]
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