JPOR: Re: Project update and questions

["Jeff Layton" <jlayton@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

From: "MoultonFamily" <moulton@ns.sympatico.ca>
>
> I have a question about the steering.  When the steering box is not under
> load and not connected to anything (pitman arm),  does it center by
itself,
> or is it happy, and would stay wherever you put the steering wheel?  I'm
> trying to find out how to measure the drag link length and get it right,
do
> you just point the wheels straight, the pitman arm straight back, and put
it
> on?

David: you gotta center the steering box by hand. Rotate it from lock to
lock, make a couple marks if you need to, then approximate the center.
Straight back is usually right on.

> What is acceptable thread engagement for a tierod end?
Dunno the official answer, but I'd go no less than 1/2" intentionally.

> It looks as though I could use my stock drag link if I can get an inch or
so
> of length out of the tierod end threads.  How do you get the tie rod ends
to
> move?  I've loosened the clamps, and put a pipe wrench on the tierod end
to
> move it but so far nothing.  I've never worked on steering stuff before
and
> am a little hesitant to beat on this stuff because of it's ability to kill
> me in the future if it fails :-)
Depending on your setup, you may just rotate the coupler - it operates just
like a turnbuckle with L & R threads on opposite ends. If very rusted, try
PB Blaster, Liquid Wrench, or other penetrant.



Jeff Layton
mailto:jlayton@austin.rr.com