Re: alfa-digest V8 #1058

[George Graves <gmgraves@domain.elided>]

Can't comment on engine problems, but my GTV-6 suffered from the same 
heavy steering (not that its 'light' by any stretch of the imagination 
normally) for over a year after I got it. I tried lots of things, from 
front-end alignment to tires, to replacing the steering coupling. None 
had any effect, Then I decided to change out my stock wooden steering 
wheel for a leather one (an Alfa GTV-6 original equipment leather wheel 
from A.P.E.) and when I finally got the old wheel off (it was on REALLY 
tight) and replaced it with the leather one of the same diameter, the 
steering suddenly became 'normal' and the excessive heaviness was gone. 
Don't know why except perhaps the old wheel, being excessively 
tightened down, was binding the steering column bearings by putting too 
much side loading on them. You might start there.

George Graves


On Tuesday, August 27, 2002, at 06:04 PM, alfa-digest wrote:


> Date: Tue, 27 Aug 2002 17:32:26 -0700
> From: "Daegrigg (Don)" <daegrigg@domain.elided>
> Subject: The Alfetta Saga Continues - Rich running, heavy steering
>
> From earlier posting, some of you may remember that I am 
> restoring/resuscitating a 79 Alfetta Sedan that set in a Michigan 
> garage for at least two years.  (The previous and original owner 
> started the car regularly for short runs around the neighborhood.)  .  
> I live in the Washington, DC area.
>
> So far:
>
> Replaced the brake line from master cylinder to the equalizer valve - 
> old line rusted.
> Changed engine and transmission oil/filter.
> Bled the brakes twice - rear brake adjustment not happening - calipers 
> could be binding, may have to rebuild.
> (Thanks for the tip on loosening the bleed fittings - the pound, 
> penetrate oil and turn method worked)
>
> Two questions on this installment - engine  and steering.
> 1.  Too fast idle, rich running,  tailpipe detonations on deceleration 
> - Does this point to the thermostatic actuator and the cut off 
> solenoid, respectively?  Any ideas before I buy expensive parts?
>
> 2.  Heavy steering - Had the Alfetta GT years ago and don't remember 
> the steering being particularly heavy.  Tire pressure is correct, even 
> tried a few pounds over with no change. (Michelin XVX).  Steering 
> effort noticeably higher at the extremes of steering travel.  With 
> wheels unloaded (off the ground) do not notice any particular binding 
> or friction. Where do I start on this one?
>
> Comments/suggestions welcomed.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Don
>
> PS.  Looking for Milano seats to put in the Alfetta.
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