Grinding sound and feel on left curves

[Zoofly]

I'm getting a grinding feel and sound from the front end of my 78 Spider when I steer to the left when driving. I don't hear it on left turns, only when up to speed (over 20 miles an hour) on curves in the road. Could that just be a loose brake pad? I also notice from time to time when braking the car moves left and right slightly.

[GeorgeT]

You need to inspect all suspension parts both front and rear. It could be worn out bushing or loose pieces.

[DieselSpider]

First check for loose wheel bearings. They really need to be checked at every oil change along with all the front end suspension bolts being checked for proper torque.

Eli's Suspension Guide on Mirafiori is a good read on what to check aside from the wheel bearings.
https://www.mirafiori.com/124susp/

[Zoofly]

Thanks for the link. Very helpful. It described some of the things I've experienced. I see big spending in front of me.

[lglade]

If you're willing to do the work yourself (and it's not all that difficult), the cost can be quite reasonable. Our trusty vendors all sell shocks, springs, bushings, control arms, etc.

[TheBender]

If you're willing to do the work yourself (and it's not all that difficult), the cost can be quite reasonable. Our trusty vendors all sell shocks, springs, bushings, control arms, etc.

I just had all of my bushings, the drag link and both upper ball joints replaced. Parts were very reasonable, definetly the labor is the expense.

[phaetn]

Sounds like bearings to me -- especially the grinding on curves, not corners, and the hunting/darting.

Axle nuts could be loose (they can back off and require restaking) or the bearings themselves could be shot. Just went through this myself.

When the car is lifted with the wheels off the ground AND THE CAR SUPPORTED BY AXLE STANDS, see if there is wiggle as you try and move the front wheel holding the tire at the top and bottom. I stress that the car needs to be supported by more than a floor jack because you don't want it falling while you have your fingers under a tire.

Wiggle when holding the tire on the left and right could also be other items (ball joints, steering linkages) but when holding it top and bottom is axle nut or bearings. Bearings occasionally need repacking with grease.

Cheers,
phaetn

[Zoofly]

Thanks, phaetn. Once I get the floor jack and stands I will do the test you suggest. I've seen video on how to replace/repack the bearings. That is something I am comfortable with doing. What/where are the axle nuts you are referring to? And what does "restaking" mean?

As you can see I'm a novice at auto repair but I love to learn and do these things myself. Much appreciate all of the help on this forum.