1956 power steering cylinder leak

[swatson999]

Hey, all...well, the newly-acquired 56 T-bird is back on the road after addressing a handful of minor squawks. The only thing that needs to be addressed fairly soon is the power steering cylinder which is leaking from both ends. I guess all those years in the dry desert dried out the seals. So my first question is...is there a rebuild/reseal kit available for these things, or is it just "buy a new one" time? Looks really easy to remove and R&R.

And wouldn't you know it...went to put the wheel covers back on and actually snapped on of the steel clips. Grrrrr. Is it okay to drive around the neighborhood for a few days with just 4 of them on one wheel? 🙂 I'd have to see one of those babies come flying off! 🙂

There are some other longer-term things that we'll get to (replacing some of the 30-years-new rubber parts on the rear suspension, adding a rear sway bar, etc.

But for just a couple days of work, she's running and driving beautifully, and looks fantastic! Can't wait to take her to the office to show her off when we're all back at work!

Thanks much, everyone!

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[doug7740]

The power steering cylinder is easy to remove and rebuild. I purchased the rebuild kit from CASCO.

https://www.classictbird.com/Kit-Power_Steering-Cylinder-Seal-55_56-1-Per-car/productinfo/3A764A/

Since you have the cylinder off be sure to replace the power steering cylinder bushings.

https://www.classictbird.com/Power_...shing-Kit-55_56-1-Per-car/productinfo/3C590A/

Attached are some pictures from when I rebuilt my power steering cylinder.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

 

[Mrujoint]

Sounds like you're having fun! Wheel Cover clips are only $4.77 each from NPD. I have the same simulated wire wheel covers and if you lose 1 clip, not a big deal. However, they can slip and it's good to be sure they're evenly spaced, even if you only have (5).

 

[swatson999]

Sounds like you're having fun! Wheel Cover clips are only $4.77 each from NPD. I have the same simulated wire wheel covers and if you lose 1 clip, not a big deal. However, they can slip and it's good to be sure they're evenly spaced, even if you only have (5).

Yeah, I've already ordered some replacements. Just wanted to drive her around all fancy-like before leaving town for a week! 🙂 Might get them in time to replace the busted one.

And yes, having a ton of fun! It's been a few years since I had a project (building an airplane), so this is a kick!

 

[albjerryg]

I have a 1956 Tbird and have rebuilt the power steering ram and all went well checked the ram arm and it was smooth no pits. Now that is is all back together I have very slow leak(Drip). It leaks only on the passenger side(right) of the ram. Should I try and get a small size seal???? Or what? Thanks Jerry

 

[Douglemmo]

I rebuilt my 57's ram, but it still leaked some. The rod gets slightly worn and the new seal didn't seal. I replaced my ram - end of problem

 

[57tbird57]

Hey, all...well, the newly-acquired 56 T-bird is back on the road after addressing a handful of minor squawks. The only thing that needs to be addressed fairly soon is the power steering cylinder which is leaking from both ends. I guess all those years in the dry desert dried out the seals. So my first question is...is there a rebuild/reseal kit available for these things, or is it just "buy a new one" time? Looks really easy to remove and R&R.

And wouldn't you know it...went to put the wheel covers back on and actually snapped on of the steel clips. Grrrrr. Is it okay to drive around the neighborhood for a few days with just 4 of them on one wheel? 🙂 I'd have to see one of those babies come flying off! 🙂

There are some other longer-term things that we'll get to (replacing some of the 30-years-new rubber parts on the rear suspension, adding a rear sway bar, etc.

But for just a couple days of work, she's running and driving beautifully, and looks fantastic! Can't wait to take her to the office to show her off when we're all back at work!

Thanks much, everyone!

might be worth trying lucas power steering sealer. it works good at reviving dried out seals if they are not completely shot

 

[albjerryg]

I rebuilt my 57's ram, but it still leaked some. The rod gets slightly worn and the new seal didn't seal. I replaced my ram - end of problem

Thanks did you replace the whole ram or just the rod. Thanks Jerry

 

[Douglemmo]

I replaced the whole cylinder.

 

[albjerryg]

I replaced the whole cylinder.

Yep I just order one plus all the hoses. Thanks Jerry

 

[Douglemmo]

Good that you got the hoses also.