M38a1ppulls to right

Beacher425 · Post by **Beacher425** » Sun Jun 19, 2016 6:02 pm

Help, please. I have a 1955 M38a1 and have driven it for almost 3000 miles over the last 4 years. over the last 4-5 months it has begun pulling to the right when braking. It drives fine for the first one or two stops coming out of the driveway then starts pulling to right when braking going forward. In reverse pulls to the left. I have replaced brake pads, checked brake lines and wheel cylinders and rest alignment. I am down to thinking a bent frame but can't think how it would have happened over the winter. Any thoughts? Thanks!!

Post by **wesk** » Sun Jun 19, 2016 7:10 pm

A left or right pull only when braking indicates:

1-Loose and worn steering parts including king pin (pivot) bearings.
2-Loose wheel bearings.
3-Incorrect running clearance on brake shoes.
4-Incorrect installation of brake shoes. Especially long vs short shoe.
5-Grabbing caused by fluid leakage on shoes and drums.
6-Worn spring mount pivots or shackles.

Beacher425 · Post by **Beacher425** » Mon Jun 20, 2016 11:46 am

Thanks Wes!
Brakes don't seem to be the culprit so I will turn my attention to the others on the list.

Beacher425 · Post by **Beacher425** » Tue Jul 05, 2016 6:46 pm

Follow up: Loose nut on the passenger tie rod end to steering knuckle allowed some wobble. tightened down and replaced cotter pin and all is well!!