Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.

[Asshat]

I installed the 1974 C20 front cross member on my 63 C20, and I guess I didn’t take very good notes on the tie rod ends I purchased.

Can someone school me on how this is supposed to go? The passenger side seems to look ok, but the driver side is not even close.

Can anyone show pics, maybe part numbers for this setup?

And, on the passenger side, should I use the existing bracket to mount the idler? Or use the idler arm from the 74?

[Asshat]

This is the front end before disassembly.

[Asshat]

I think maybe I have the tie rods at the wrong spot; they should be at the inside of the steering link.

[KQQL IT]

Our 73

[Asshat]

Originally Posted by KQQL IT

Our 73

Ahhh... ok.
Thanks, that helps.
Just what I thought. Hopefully, I can get it assembled tomorrow.

[Asshat]

Anyone know the best way to position the mount for the idler arm?
Kinda stuck on this.

None of the existing holes line up.

[Asshat]

I read a few posts and it seems I just need to insure the steering link is level and runs straight across the front cross member; then, I should be able to mark the holes.

Does that make sense? Are there any other considerations?

I may just tack it in place, so I can turn the wheels and make sure it has the proper movement.

[KQQL IT]

Large C clamp to hold it ?

[Asshat]

Originally Posted by KQQL IT

Large C clamp to hold it ?

Holding it in place is not a problem, it’s where to place it.

[notsolo]

Copy whats in the photo. You have the the brake hose in the elongated hole, line up the rear corner of the flat cut off end with the bottom of the elongated hole. Bottom bolt is close to the lower flange. Get those 2 set and it will be very close. Clamp it off and check your level. and clearance in front of the cross member.

[Asshat]

Originally Posted by notsolo

Copy whats in the photo. You have the the brake hose in the elongated hole, line up the rear corner of the flat cut off end with the bottom of the elongated hole. Bottom bolt is close to the lower flange. Get those 2 set and it will be very close. Clamp it off and check your level. and clearance in front of the cross member.

Isn’t the brake hose supposed to go there, in the elongated hole?
There’s no other hole for the brake line to go into.

[KQQL IT]

Our 68

[KQQL IT]

Try and straighten them up.
I don't know why these flip randomly

[Asshat]

Ok, I have two questions, which will probably lead to more questions later.

1. Is there a procedure for adjusting or lining up the linkage? Since everything was totally disassembled, I’m not sure where to start. I’m planning on taking it to a front end shop for an alignment right away, but I will need to drive it there.

2. Is the pressure port connection on the steering gear the larger port?

[KQQL IT]

Make sure the center link Is correct.
Center up the pitman and idler arms.
Get the tie rods similar lengths.
Put about 6 shims in the front and 3 or 4 on the rear studs
Then set the toe in close ish

Can't help with the p/s
ditched mine for a manual box

[Asshat]

Originally Posted by KQQL IT

Make sure the center link Is correct.
Center up the pitman and idler arms.
Get the tie rods similar lengths.
Put about 6 shims in the front and 3 or 4 on the rear studs
Then set the toe in close ish

Can't help with the p/s
ditched mine for a manual box

Why did you remove your power steering?

[KQQL IT]

Because it decided to dump its fluid all over my garage floor and had a NOS manual box.
It's mildly inconvenient at times but doesn't bother me enough to put it back.

[Asshat]

Originally Posted by KQQL IT

Because it decided to dump its fluid all over my garage floor and had a NOS manual box.
It's mildly inconvenient at times but doesn't bother me enough to put it back.

I get it; I like the simplicity, however, maneuvering in parking lots is a PITA.

[KQQL IT]

Super simple.

Manual steer
Manual brakes
1 wire alternator

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by KQQL IT

Super simple.

Manual steer
Manual brakes
1 wire alternator

Manual steer & brakes I get. 1-wire alt I don't.
Why would it be better vs. common off the shelf replacement units available almost everywhere?

[KQQL IT]

3 less wires under the hood
And was a easy way to get a 140amp alternator in original brackets.
And tied the trigger wire up under the distributor if it's ever needed.

[Richard]

Originally Posted by KQQL IT

Try and straighten them up.
I don't know why these flip randomly

If you take pics on phone and do not want to edit them on computer, always hold phone vertical when taking the picture. If you upload to computer and have windows. Simply open the pics with paint and save them. I have found it prevents the turning. You can preview the post as well before posting to see if pics are correct.