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Steering problems

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Old Sep 4, 2005 | 12:38 AM
  #1  
speedy_mike's Avatar
speedy_mike
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Default Steering problems

I have a '79 Sportster.

My handle bars don't turn smoothly from one side to the other without wanting to stop in or near the straight-ahead position. It makes steering very difficult at slow speeds. As I approach the position from either side, I must apply pressure to keep it from 'falling in the notch' too fast and when I want to turn slowly, I've got to apply extra pressure to get the handlebars to turn out of that 'notch'. I can't afford to take it to a mechanic. Any idea what the fix would be for this problem?

Mike

 
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Old Sep 4, 2005 | 01:53 AM
  #2  
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pococj
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Default RE: Steering problems

Time to replace the ball bearings and the races. Get thee a manual and the parts.
 
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Old Sep 4, 2005 | 03:27 AM
  #3  
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Default RE: Steering problems

what skip said, and fast!
 
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Old Sep 5, 2005 | 12:09 AM
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Default RE: Steering problems

Thanks much.

Mike
 
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Old Sep 5, 2005 | 02:33 PM
  #5  
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Default RE: Steering problems

Im no mechanic, but I'd aggree with Skip. Sounds like one off the ball bearings has broken or they are flattened out.
 
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Old Sep 5, 2005 | 08:21 PM
  #6  
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Default RE: Steering problems

Skip is correct, you have a groove worn in that one spot from loose bearings, road holes and bumps.
 
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