Steering play - pitman arm
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Holley HP EFI w/TPI
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 553
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From: Kanata ON
Steering play - pitman arm
I followed the instructions in a previous thread about diagnosing the source of steering play. The rag joint is ok, the play seems to be with the pitman arm, where there is a nut + cotter pin.
I couldn't see there very well, is there a bushing or something that wears out that I can replace?
I couldn't see there very well, is there a bushing or something that wears out that I can replace?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,071
Likes: 86
From: Rotonda FL
The Pittman arm is splined (1 inch diameter, 48 splines) It is a press fit onto the steering box shaft (the nut is tightened to approx 150 ft lbs). I do not believe that the source of slippage is likely to be there. It is most probably back up in the steering box itself.
If you are looking at the other end of the Pittman arm, that attaches to the drag link/relay rod, this is also a press fit onto a tapered shaft of the power steering control valve (or its manual steering analog). The Pittman can wear in this area, but it is much more likely that the control valve (or the ball and seat in the manual steering version) is worn.
If you are looking at the other end of the Pittman arm, that attaches to the drag link/relay rod, this is also a press fit onto a tapered shaft of the power steering control valve (or its manual steering analog). The Pittman can wear in this area, but it is much more likely that the control valve (or the ball and seat in the manual steering version) is worn.
Last edited by Rotonda; Apr 12, 2010 at 12:07 PM. Reason: Added additional info
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,086
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From: Michigan
You should read some of Jim Shea's excellent papers on steering issues.
Assuming all your suspension and steering linkages are o.k. you probably need a steering gear box adjustment. Do the in car method. it's very easy. Just do the two adjustments in the correct order and be sure you do the adjustment with the steering gear on TDC.
I had very good success with this.
http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-co...erev14no08.doc
Assuming all your suspension and steering linkages are o.k. you probably need a steering gear box adjustment. Do the in car method. it's very easy. Just do the two adjustments in the correct order and be sure you do the adjustment with the steering gear on TDC.
I had very good success with this.
http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/wp-co...erev14no08.doc
Safety Car
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From: Calgary Alberta
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