Slow, Driving Rustoration 1972 Dart

uber cool said
I have only driven mine at the shipping container port from the compound to the trailer and from the trailer to my garage and it didn't feel like the steering wheel is connected to the wheels, so I too suspect the tie rods and steering linkages need a good looking at.

Yeah I've got about 2-3 inches of travel in the steering wheel plus the high pressure power steering giving little road feel. Combined, the steering is anything but nimble.

BrianT said
Just my opinion, but at this point in your build, just replace what is worn out? It may not need tie rods or ball joints. It may just need an idler arm (very common). This leaves more money for U joints and axle bearings (may just need adjustment and gear oil). Later, when time allows if you want to rebuild your complete front end, go for it.

True, basically planning for the worst, hoping for the best. When I replaced the entire brake system I checked the front end as best I could and nothing felt dangerous. At bare minimum everything needs new rubbers and greased. Planning on taking an afternoon to go through front end and see what needs replaced/refreshed. I'm pretty sure the rear end needs axle bearings to quiet it down. I'll probably tackle the front end a side at a time, cleaning up what can be saved and replacing what needs replaced. Stuff I can get done on a weekend.

The car also came with most of an extra front end as well, minus torsion bars. So I may have salvageable parts in there.