[tocheck]

First, congrats on the car. I purchased a used Backdraft last spring that had 3,500 miles on it. I agree completely with the other comments about checking the steering and suspension. I had pretty much the same complaints about mine.

For what it is worth here is what i have learned so far.
1. The steering column is mounted to a frame behind the dash. It is bolted together and bolted to the frame (not welded). All of my bolts were loose and tightening these up helped a lot. I have only ever driven one backdraft but Ihave a feeling they are prone to have cowl shake.

2. When I got the car (going by memory here) it was running 27 psi in the front tires. As I began to autocross with it a little I upped the pressure to 33 psi and I feel the ride and hunting around over bumps improved.

3. I believe these cars will always ride rough on bad roads, but after pushing this car on track, I wouldn't change a thing.

Hope this helps.