View Single Post
Old 11-01-2014, 12:38 PM   #10
j cAT
AF Fanatic
 
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: EVERETT, Massachusetts
Posts: 10,898
Thanks: 8
Thanked 432 Times in 431 Posts
Re: Idler arms and pitman arm

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rimtid View Post
I replaced my pitman arm on 2001 chevy s10 4 wd. I am not a mechanic but do work on my truck to save money. After replacing the pitman arm my steering wheel is off center to the right. I had the steering wheel key locked straight but not strapped down. The off center I think is because I broke pitman arm loose with pickle fork and sledge. I will be replacing idler arm this weekend and make tie rod adjustments after that.
hopefully you did not damage the box . as was mentioned a puller is used and is cheap tool or you can borrow one at an auto part store. on the tie rods use a puller is best not too much hammering to break free. use a penetrating oil a few days before working it. clean and apply product.
my guess is you are off on the install of the pitman arm which is why the steering is off... installing the idler arm in the same position is required but not much movement with that. this model year is an idler arm/pitman arm regular job..

use a quality lithium based grease at every oil change on all fittings.

when done center the steering wheel and using a line from the rear to front adjust the tie rods so the fwd portion of the rim on the front tires is in about 1/4 inch. then get an alignment if necessary.
j cAT is offline   Reply With Quote