Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

Hey all,

Quick ? for you.

Torquing down the pitman arm nut and was wondering how exposed the teeth should still be after reaching torque. I read it should be about 41 ft lbs, but I have gone a good bit tighter than that and still there is a large gap. Is this gap normal? I felt the splines engage so I know it's on there in the right spot, but just wondering if anything else might be wrong.

http://i1037.photobucket.com/albums/...psnnnr0p3d.jpg

Cheers and thanks

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

Here’s what mine looks like:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/674/224vNz.jpg

Mine is a 73(?) power steering box, and although mine looks like it’s on a little tighter, I’m thinking the biggest difference is you can’t see how far on the nut is because it’s a taller Nylock style rather than the factory flat nut and lock washer. I think the most important thing is to make sure you have enough thread engagement in the nut.

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

I believe that that the knob with the splines is slightly cone-shaped so it's not likely to cinch right up. Every one I've ever done, I tightened as tight as I could get it, even using an impact. Certainly don't want that nut coming loose.

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

Mine measures about 7/16" from the pitman arm to the gearbox case.

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

I just did mine and it looks just like yours. I used the big 24" Crescent on it. There is no way mine is coming off.

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

Thanks guys. The stud is engaged by the nut all the way down to the nylon part of the nut, but doesn't actually go INTO the nylon.

http://i1037.photobucket.com/albums/...ps1c7c1db9.png

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

I wouldn't use a nylock nut on a critical component such as a pitman arm. I would use either an all steel lock nut (commonly called a prevailing torque nut) or a split lock washer and a jamb nut as the factory used.

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

I just replaced the pitman arm on my 66' two days ago and instructions that came with it said to torque it to 100 - 150 ft.-lbs. I ended up torquing it to 130 ft.-lbs. and I can tell you that it's not quite as high up on the splines as the original one was, but it's not going anywhere, either. And, as Captainfab said, I wouldn't use that type of nut. I'd use the original nut and lock washer, if you still have them.

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

The one I just I installed from moog said 140lbs. I used original the original nut and new lock washer for reinstall.

Re: Pitman arm install - how close should it be to box?
 

Thanks all,

I don't have the original bolt/washer, but will grab a different style. I'll torque accordingly as well.