Posted by Charlie on May 08, 1999 at 12:35:50:
In Reply to: 41 WC caster adjustment? posted by Don Graham on May 08, 1999 at 08:57:13:
I've put power steering on a M37 (integral PS box) and B1PW (hydraulic actuator/draglink and ram that pushes tierod). After my first PS conversion, the M37, I had exactly the same problem. I noted that the M37 and other manual steering straight axle leaf spring vehicles (i.e. Toyota Landcruiser) call for +1 degree caster. I also noted that my 88 Ford F350, which has a straight axle and leaf springs, has +5 degrees caster. I also had an experience where my Landcruiser developed -1.25 degrees caster due to a collision and frame straightening and handling was as you describe, till I installed +2.5 degree caster wedges. Then everything was good.
So I installed 4 degree caster wedges on the M37, and everything is wonderful. I put the same wedges on the PW when I installed a custom made set of front spring on it, and despite the hydraulic ram assisted steering, it has good center feel and return-to-center. 4 degree wedges that are 4.5" long are only ~0.32" thick at the end. I really don't think you'll need new u-bolts. BE SURE to use STEEL wedges, NOT ALUMINUM!! Aluminum wedges disintegrate after 2-5 years.Bronze might be OK, I've never used them.
What type on engine conversion did you do?
Charlie