Pitman Arm Quandry

[cv70chall]

I recently replaced my front suspension components. Control arms, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, idler and pitman arms... I am under the impression that there is either a washer or shim/ spacer that prevents binding or over-tightening. I'm almost certain this is the source of the tightness and binding when the suspension is under load. I also am rebuilding the steering column so I can make sure EVERY box is checked as far as related bearings/ parts.
Can anyone clarify if there is a washer/ spacer between the pitman arm and steering box?

Thanks

 

[pschlosser]

I do not recall, first hand. I've done 2 or 3 of these over the years. Looking in the (1970) parts book, one is not shown in the diagram, but there is a part number itemized. Washers are generally adjacent to the turning nut. A washer between the pitman arm and steering box could bind, when the nut is tightened and pushes the arm onto the output shaft.

 

[cv70chall]

I do not recall, first hand. I've done 2 or 3 of these over the years. Looking in the (1970) parts book, one is not shown in the diagram, but there is a part number itemized. Washers are generally adjacent to the turning nut. A washer between the pitman arm and steering box could bind, when the nut is tightened and pushes the arm onto the output shaft.
View attachment 157289

Thanks! I believe the washer would have to go between the pitman arm and nut- as the steering box shaft is splined.

 

[pschlosser]

I don't think the washer is anything special (in terms of thickness) so if you're is missing, a hardware store 1/2-inch washer should work fine under the 1/2-20 castle nut.

 

[Xcudame]

On the steering shaft, there is a big lock washer that goes between the pitman arm and the nut. On the pitman arm to center link, there isn't a washer, just a nut and cotter pin.

 

[Challenger RTA]

Thanks! I believe the washer would have to go between the pitman arm and nut- as the steering box shaft is splined.

That would be correct. Lock washer.

 

[cuda joe]

a missing washer there won;t make it bind .check to see if anything is hitting i have see tie rod bolts hit the exhaust

 

[michigan2023]

a missing washer there won;t make it bind .check to see if anything is hitting i have see tie rod bolts hit the exhaust

I’m going through my 72 and just realized that the transmission mount was wore out letting the oil pan rest on the draglink bar when it was turning at certain points, mine is a 340 with a 4-speed.

 

[cudamark]

Between pitman arm and sector shaft, nothing, just a wedge fit in the splines. Between pitman arm and retaining nut, a large lock washer as mentioned. Now, if you have a '73-up pitman arm (large hole) on a '72 and older steering gear (small shaft), the pitman arm will go on too far and cause all sorts of alignment problems and possible binding.