1957 Thunderbird Power Steer Control Valve and Ball Stud Adjustment

[Bruce Taylor]

My power steer control valve was leaking and the ball stud had signs of movement so I removed it from my car to overhaul. I fitted a new ball stud and the seals in the control valve. When I installed everything back to how it was prior I couldn't fit the end cap as the threaded stud was sticking out too far. Have I not screwed the ball stud housing on far enough even though it is the same position prior. Or is the threaded stud not screwed in far enough?
When I assembled it without the end cap it pulled to the left with the engine running and the front raised. I think this adjustment would be altered at the spring loaded stud.
I would really appreciate any help with this issue.
First photo shows how far on the housing was screwed on prior to dismantling.
Third photo shows the spring loaded stud prior to dismantling.

 

[doug7740]

Attached is the power steering control valve measurement.


doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

 

[Cuul59]

Hi Bruce, I’ve recently overhauled my ‘57 valve as well. To my knowledge the control valve stud adjustment is only for pre-load. I am wondering if you might have re-assembled the valve components in the incorrect order or direction. Do you have a good image of the exploded view? If not, I can send you one.

 

[Bruce Taylor]

Thanks for these two responses. I do not have a good image of the exploded view. I bought a seal kit from the US and one of the new seals was quite narrow compared to what was removed so I bought another the same size from a local shop. I will take a photo tonight of how I assembled it.

 

[Cuul59]

See attached image. Also, note that the 2 seals for the spool valve should be the same size.

 

[Bruce Taylor]

Thanks for the exploded view. Does anyone know if there is a particular adjustment for part number 3C560. Or do you just screw it in as far as it will go.

 

[doug7740]

The two seals are not the same size. Referring to the attached picture, the control valve is disassembled by removing the sleeve and the large washer (left in the picture) and pushing the valve out of the control valve housing. Lay the pieces in the order removed. The large end of the valve, the large seal and the seal backup ring are on the right in the attached picture.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

 

[Bruce Taylor]

Thanks for that Doug. My control valve is in that order. I am wondering whether I have an issue with my ball stud. The measurement that was given is acheived but being spring loaded this dimension of 9.5 inches changes.
First photo shows the spring and retainers removed.
Second photo is with the control valve removed.
Third photo in this position I can move the stud in and out almost as if there is something missing or there is an incorrect adjustment. In fact I cannot even get the end cap to fit on.

 

[biddle]

@Bruce Taylor you can insert the photos into your post after attaching. I did this for you using this method-