The "bend" in the steering arm is probably supposed to be there. If things are aligned properly, an imaginary line drawn from the kingpin to the center of the rear axle should cross the hole in the tie rod with the front wheels pointed straight ahead. As the front wheels turn away from straight ahead, this angle causes the wheel on the inside of the turn to make a shorter turn, called the "Ackerman" angle. If the Ackerman is incorrect, the tires scrub in a turn and the driver has to fight the wheel.
Jerry

Edit: The tie rod should be straight. I was thinking of the bend that's usually present in the steering arms.
Jerry


Last edited by Hotrod Lincoln; 11/17/2011 6:41 PM.
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