At TMS we have two ongoing projects: our ‘museum bus’ conversion of GM 4107, and ensuring the Hayes Teardrop can be driven safely as we celebrate its 90th anniversary next year!
Lawrence has been inspecting the brakes, wheels and steering. This last week he turned his attention to the ‘pitman’ arm. A Pitman arm connects the steering gearbox with the linkage in older steering systems commonly known as recirculating-ball.
When first inspecting the arm, Lawrence was unsure of the amount of wear that was acceptable. Fabricating a new arm would be expensive, but he decided to stop by Scott Spring Ltd in Surrey to ask for their advice. Soon three friendly mechanics, Mac, Kam & Dave, were eagerly inspecting the relic! The conclusion? Though there was some wear, it was perfectly serviceable! They did comment about a missing leather ‘boot’ which helped keep dirt out. Lawrence quickly made a replacement from scrap leather. Originally held in place by wire, he substititued zap ties – probably Hayes Anderson would have done so too, had they been invented!