1951 M38 VERY hard to steer!

floridajack · Post by **floridajack** » Sat Sep 21, 2013 4:58 pm

Hi, Y'all:
My M38 is very hard to steer, so much so that I am afraid sometimes that it will not respond to my turning effort. I am a big, strong guy but wondered if this is normal for the vehicle or should I have the steering looked at. I am very new to this vehicle, and this won't be my last question. Thanks.

donthedickens · Post by **donthedickens** » Sat Sep 21, 2013 7:16 pm

What kind of tires are installed? The old steering doesn't take kindly to wide radials.

Post by **wesk** » Sat Sep 21, 2013 7:37 pm

Or if the jeep has sat a long time the steering gear box is known to rust up pretty good.

floridajack · Post by **floridajack** » Sat Sep 21, 2013 8:08 pm

Stock tires 7.00x16..I'll check the steering gear box. Thank

Post by **wesk** » Sat Sep 21, 2013 8:39 pm

You can download the applicable manuals here on our downloads page for free.

The Ross Manufacturer's Overhaul manual:
http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... it&lid=136

TM 9-1804B M38 running gear manual:
http://www.willysmjeeps.com/v2/modules. ... oad&cid=62

If you just bought the jeep you should check to see if the adjusting screw has been overtightened to impress a buyer with a tight steering jeep.

oilleaker1 · Post by **oilleaker1** » Sun Sep 22, 2013 6:37 am

Jack it up and put it safely on jackstands. Then you could disconnect the drag link and step by step find where the resistance or stickyness is. Something is rusted up , too tight, or something simple like the adjuster screw on the side of the steering box is turned in too tight by the previous owner. John

Texbillhs · Post by **Texbillhs** » Sun Sep 22, 2013 6:36 pm

As Wes said - if it had a Ross steering box rebuild the adjustment might be too tight - seen this a few times now and even my own was a little too tight after rebuild.

acengraver · Post by **acengraver** » Mon Sep 23, 2013 8:50 am

Make sure you're not in 4 wheel drive on pavement. That'll sure make a difference.