Cadillac front end stuff

Many times the cause of sloppy steering on these cars (I have had 4 1976s)
is the centerlink the idler arm and the steering sector which are not in the kit.
 
ya what he said, but this will cover each side. the idler you can pick up fairly cheap but the center link is usually worn out at the pitman arm. last I hear they wanted 250 for one of them. he maybe a little high on just these . do a quick check form kanter or usa parts then stop down to you local parts store and ask them. this seller is most likely gathering and reselling for people to lazy to go get there own. but as I haven't priced them lately do you own checking
 
Almost every part is available from your local NAPA or Carquest store, except for the center drag link, and the upper ball joints. Don't buy any parts until you know exactly what you need, and then only buy what you need. I just did the complete front end on my 1969 Cadillac, and both the upper ball joints, center drag link, and idler arm were all good. On my car, I needed upper and lower control arm bushings and lower ball joints. I also replaced the shock absorbers and springs. Ride hight was measured with the old springs, and then with the new, and nothing changed. I now have a spare set of front springs that are as good as new. With new tires, new parts and a front end alignment, the car handles just like a new car. :thumb:
 
My Criterion steers well and drives nice until I hit 68 mph then we start to wobble and bounce. I can go faster and it seems to smooth out but if I'm driving this to Albany I want it smooth. :4_11_9:
 
I'd check your wheel balance first, Richard, before investing any big bucks. I had a similar problem with my Criterion that was completely solved by balancing both front wheels at a cost of about $25.00.:boo:
 
At least in the past (mid 90's) some of Kanter's kits contained some parts made overseas that I was not comfortable using. With the weight of that car I would put the BEST POSSIBLE under it and not go the economical way out.

I am in the process of rebuilding the suspension on a 78 Buick LeSabre frame that is being modified and mounted under a 55 Buick. I went to NAPA for the ball joints and Energy Suspension for the front and rear bushing sets.

Have not gotten far enough for the tie rods and center link, after checking them out it will be another NAPA trip.

Same with staying away from Chinese wheel bearings. When that Buick is done, it has to be able to be driven across country and back with no worries.
 
I have found that even NAPA is now selling a lot of Chinese made parts. I have found the best source for the old American made parts is ebay, but you need to know exactly what you need, because there is no returning it if it is wrong..
 
I don't think you can find a lot of new stuff American or Canadian made any more. don't care who's box it comes in.
 
I also agree with doug, you should have the tires re balanced on a newer spin balancer. It sounds like your problem since you can drive out of the shake.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top