My 78 242 steers hard right when it is cold - as in the first 20 minutes after start-up when the weather is down near freezing temps. Actually - steering is "slightly stiff" either way - and almost impossible to turn the wheel left or if turning right, to get it back to center, when things are cold..


The colder it gets, the greater the resistance in the power steering system.

Once the motor warms up well, and I suspect, the power steering fluid warms - things are OK. Steering input then is very easy. If memory serves me correctly - easier than when the old 78 power steering pump was on.

I must add - the power steering pump was replaced from a 1980 245, after a blown hose incident.

Also - my son says the car steers like it is riding "on a big ball." Steering requires extremely small steering input either way from center, and the car sort of darts off of center. It is OK to drive - just not relaxing.

All front end parts were replaced about 18 months ago(including rubber bushings, and steering connecting components), and I did a rough re-alignment.

So far most of our driving is short trips to town (about 7 miles of gravel out)
mixed with some asphalt.

No big steering grab when transitioning from gravel to asphalt at 50 mph, no weird tire wearing, but I think an professional rack alignment might help.

Also - I should add - along with the front end parts replacement , this car also has a small lift - about 2 1/2 inches all around. Thanks to diesel coils added up front, and 245 coils, along with 2 1/2" lift blocks added to the rear coils.

Anyone had similar problems...??

thanks in advance....

Goldy

87 245 500k+ kms
78 242 300k+ kms