|
Steering Linkage Reinstallation
Materials used :
- Standard automotive tools (socket-wrenches, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, etc.)
- Jack and jack-stands
- Grease gun
- Heavy gear-lube
- Tap-hammer
- Bench vise
- Replacement steering center pivot-pin
- Replacement bearings
- Replacement cotter pins
- Anti-seize compound
- Eye protection
- Protective gloves
Note :
Always wear eye protection when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.
Procedure :
- Once installed, any up-and-down movement in the center steering link will result in steering-wheel play. The portion of the link with the bearings is secured in its fitting using shims that will minimize such movement.
- Carefully position the assembly beneath the vehicle, replacing it in the same position as it was before removal.
- Once the assembly is aligned in position, tap in a top shim with a hammer and punch.
- Carefully tap the pin into place from underneath - centered in the bearings - until the tip of the pin protrudes through the opening and the pin seats securely.
- Check the operation of the linkage, to make certain that it operates smoothly and doesn't bind, then secure the top of the pin with a castellated nut and cotter pin. The castellated nut should be torque-tightened to about 20 foot-pounds.
- To install the tie-rod end onto the spindle arm, install the washer then apply some anti-seize compound onto the tapered pin. This will allow the end to be removed more easily if it ever becomes necessary in the future.
- Position the tapered pin into the opening and tap it in securely.
- Secure the pin in position with a castellated nut and cotter pin.
- Use the grease gun to pump fresh grease into the tie-rod end to create a good weather-seal.
- The next step is to connect the pitman arm onto the drag-link. First, add some fresh grease to the ball of the pitman arm and reinstall the dust-cap. The dust-cap serves to help keep the grease in and road-dirt out.
- Swing the drag-link over on top of the Pitman arm.
- Install the threaded cap and tighten it down securely with a slotted screwdriver.
- Finally, install the cotter pin and secure it.
Now you can check your work. Center the front wheel, then go to the driver's seat and check for play in the steering wheel. The front wheel should move with immediate response as the steering wheel is turned - even if it's only a slight motion of the steering wheel. If the steering is tight and smooth, that completes the restoration of the steering system.
In summary, for this phase of the restoration we replaced the steering-crank bearings and fully cleaned and serviced the steering linkage assembly - resulting in much tighter and more precise steering.
|
