Steering arm shims

[mygmctruck1]

Just removed my steering arm on a closed knuckle 68 k1500 gmc . There are 9 shims for this bugger. In the process 3 were damaged badly , 6 are ok but some minor damage and wavey They are all the same triangular pattern

Can I reuse the shims that are not badly damaged and just replace the damaged one’s
I already know where to get replacements .

Converting this to power steering has proven to be a challenge for sure , so if there’s anything else I should know , please say so.

Thanks

[kwmech]

Those shims preload the trunnion/kingpin bearings. What does 'badly damaged' mean?? Broken? If you have access to new ones I would just replace by thickness without overloading the used bearing.

Did you have the arm machined?

[mygmctruck1]

Originally Posted by kwmech

Those shims preload the trunnion/kingpin bearings. What does 'badly damaged' mean?? Broken? If you have access to new ones I would just replace by thickness without overloading the used bearing.

Did you have the arm machined?

Yes 3 of them were broken , I have no way to mic them but I am guessing they are all the same thickness based on what I see. I already ordered replacements and they are no choices in thinkness . But they are exact replacement design wise. as for machining the arm , not sure what you asking ? but I did have it shortened 1 1/2 “ that’s the only reason I removed it . Prior to the P.S conversion , I experienced no issues . Truck had only 63,000 mile on it .

[kwmech]

Getting a tie rod end to match so it can be adjusted is usually an issue. Sometimes the hole has to be retapered

[mygmctruck1]

Originally Posted by kwmech

Getting a tie rod end to match so it can be adjusted is usually an issue. Sometimes the hole has to be retapered

Ok , makes sense now . We’ll cross that bridge in a couple of days .

Thanks

[61K10]

ck out my build, part #'s for a new drag link are listed.

[mygmctruck1]

Originally Posted by 61K10

ck out my build, part #'s for a new drag link are listed.

Yep , have those on the bench waiting for installation . Been waiting for the steering arm work first .