Don't yet know the extent of wear on various components involved, but I can visually observe play where the pitman arm connects to the relay, and at the inner tie rod connection to the relay on the passenger side. As my uncle said, the first two turns of the wheel don't count on this vehicle. I am a novice at best on steering, suspension. Is it possible and reasonable to replace only the rings, nuts, cotter pins, etc., at these connections if wear on the primary part is not extensive? Also, is it necessary, as the manual suggests, to remove the entire linkage to replace the pitman arm, or just the rings, nuts, etc. on the pitman arm connection? Thanks for any info...

 

I Fear the Answer.....

.... may be that I should take the opportunity to go ahead and drop the entire linkage and inspect/replace whatever needs replacing......

 

You can inspect it on the truck.... it sounds like that's what you have already done.

Have someone turn the wheel back and forth while looking for "play" in all the steering components. Make note of it and replace it all.

I don't think there are any quick, long lasting band aids for worn steering parts.... its an important system on a vehicle, lol.

 

So the main question I have left is:

Do I have to drop the entire linkage (including relay rod, tie rods, etc.) in order to replace the pitman arm?

THANKS!

 

I wouldn't think so... You should be able to separate the arm from the linkage and then take the arm off the gear box.

Moog K9114 - Auto Parts Network

 

All the parts are fairly cheap and easy to replace on these trucks. Take a measurement from the outer tie rod to outer tie rod at the spindles to help set it back to normal. Then get it aligned. Mine is getting to the same point. Needs to all be replaced.

 

There is also and adjustment screw on the steering box. At least on 79+ there is. jack up the front, loosen locknut and turn adjusting screw, turn from lock to lock and check for binding. when it starts to bind back the screw out a little and check for binding again. Tighten locknut and check again. your box is now adjusted.