Posted by Will (in MI) on Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 6:17PM :
In Reply to: Re: Steering Question posted by Vaughn on Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 4:47PM :
Vaughn,
1. The Pitman Arm (SGA) was used. Good shape from Vintage.
2. Are you referring to the leather portion that goes up the Pitman Arm (SGA)? If so, was unaware to do that, but it makes since.
3. Turning both ways, the stop bolts hit. It looks like one is adjusted different than the other, but they are welded in adjusted position so I'd have to replace them to change them. The steering box does come close to the end of it's travel when turning left (currently 2.5 turns) , but not to the right (currently 2.0 turns).
I pulled everything apart again today and found that the rear "Socket" at the rear of the Pitman Arm (SGA) was a but rough when rocked back and forth on the Pitman Arm. So I pulled out one of the good (almost new) units that was in my old Drag Link and it moved much smother, so I used it on re-assembly.
This time I used some high Molly grease and made sure every thing was very well lubed on re-assembly.
I found that the front end had a slight (1/4" difference) toe out so I adjusted that before re-assembly.
I made sure the Steering Box travel was in the center. and then re-installed the Pitman Arm (SGA) and Drag Link.
I then filled the steering box with oil (after discovering it was low). No sign of any leaks though.
With everything back connected and the wheels still off the ground it seems to turn a little easer to the right, but not as good as it does to the left.
Before I could get the truck out of the garage and check it out, the rain started, so I don't know how well it works now. (My windshield is out being painted, so the trucks not water proof).
Hope this makes it better. Only thing left not replaced is the Steering Box, and seeing it was low on fluid, it could just be worn gears.
Thanks,
Will
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