Question re power steering on '54 PD4104.

[Flyboy]

Hi All,

Before I start, I'd like to say how much I enjoyed my first issue of BC magazine.  Great publication!!  Wayne's got a great woody, keep up the good work.

I've been working on the bus the last couple of days with a really talented heavy duty mechanic buddy.  The more I see of the mechanics of my bus, the more I love it. We've ironed out a lot of weak links so far from the previous owner.

We are currently working on adjusting the steering to get it to track straight.  Wondering if anyone had an expanded schematic and instructions on how to adjust the hydraulic assist on the Pitman arm to get it centered.  The bus steers to the left while driving.  The maintenance manuals I have are geared towards laymen and are pretty thin on detail. 

Any input especially if it comes with pictures would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Aron.

[TomC]

If it steers on its' own to the left, it is most likely an alignment problem.  The first place to go would be the rear axle.  If it is cockeyed, it will push the bus that way.  But I would check the front alignment.  If that doesn't work, try switching the front tires right to left and left to right.  Loose steering won't do that.

If all you want to do is to get the steering wheel straight, first, by going slowly like in a parking lot, start from straight and while rolling first count the steering wheel turns to the right.  Then do the same thing from straight turning left and count the steering wheel turns.  If it is the same, then everything is adjusted correctly, just pull the steering wheel and re install it at the correct position.  If you say have more right than left, then a steering system adjustment is needed.  I thought that the 04's had the steering box mounted on the axle?  Either way, you should be able to adjust the steering back to straight one way or another.  I personally have a 3 spoke wheel that I don't care where it sits-but that's just me.  Good Luck, TomC

[4104bigred]

get a service manual (available online at pd4104.com) and adjust the assist cylinder in the front steering.
we had the same problem on our 04 and it fixed it

chris

[Len Silva]

I want to reiterate Tom's point.  After you get the front end all fixed up, do the rare.  I found that replacing the rear bushings made all the difference in handling.

Len

[Flyboy]

Thanks for the advice guys.  Been away from the computer till today.  Will check all on the next go round.

Aron.