WOW. Lots to think about now. Maybe I 'leave well alone'. Looking at the pictures from Lorne it seems clear that the rebound spring has been shortened in order to make the explained 'cheap' fix. New picture shows the presence of steering bearings.
Tyres are Toyo 165 and not old - car has a steering damper which I'm guessing will contribute to heavy low speed steering??
I will lubricate all steering and suspension, check tyre pressures and see what results I get.
I can't thank you all enough for your inputs - I'm learning all the time.
Peter H.

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