I started working on my bro's new-to-him '78 F-150 4x4. I'm still amazed at how clean it is. Deceiphering the date plate reveals that it has a C-4 and limited slip 9" rear :) I still need to find out the axle ratio - It screams like a banshee at speeds over 45 MPH. I guess the 27" tires don't help with that :p

Anyways, I wanted to get some opinions on the steering. It has power steering, but it takes more effort to turn right than it does left. I don't think it is a PS problem but maybe something in the knuckles. Could this be the ball joints wearing out? It also doesn't return to center - This has the radius arms (coil sprung) right? Could the radius arm bushing be worn out?

It also has a wander on the highway. I'm not ruling out tires or alignment yet, but wanted to get your opinions on that too. It isn't bad, you just need to stay on top of it.

Lots of questions, I know, but I know you guys can shed some light :D

:usa:

A bettin' man would put his money on it being one or both the outer U-joints. Might hedge the bet and say it could be ball-joints too...U-joints more likely though. U-joints fail quicker, but ball joints would be more likely to cause the wander. The drag of flexing a bad U-joint causes steering trouble even when in 2WD.