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Cudajas
09-02-2014, 01:28 PM
Hey guys....I am a bit of a newbie here. I am working on the long term goal of converting my 74 Cuda to a pro-touring machine.

Currently I am having an issue with my aftermarket fast ratio pitman arm.

The only way to get the power steering box centered and the wheels and the steering wheels to line up straight, or at least close to straight is to adjust the tie rod to different lengths.

Will this create any problems?

Thanks,

Jason

MonzaRacer
09-03-2014, 06:06 PM
Generally no. The biggest issue is counting turns on box to get it centered. Installing the pitman arm properly.
when starting from NEW on new parts, I paint on a thing coat of antiseize on tie rod threads, then screw each tie rod end in same number of turns into adjusters. NOW, if some of tie rods are off shore they may have more than old tie rods. Like most g-body/S10 tie rods would take around 15 too 18 turns into both sides of adjuster.
Basically you TRY to get both side symmetrical ,still have threads not in adjuster sleeve and still have at least an 1" to 1 1/2" open in middle of adjuster so alignment guy can have ability to get it right. I have had to cut off a little on ends of tie rods. I always try to point any clamp type adjuster sleeve lock bolts towards rear of car so hitting a curb or other junk fails to damage threads. Once its all hooked up then attach column/intermediate shaft.
IF pitman arm isnt parallel with frame and idler arm your gonna have steering issues. PA and IA should point forward or rearward, not off too right or left with box properly centered. IF it has a master spline stopping proper clocking, all things else equal, take a die grinder/carbide cutter, carefully remove master spline(s) and clock appropriately. one spline left or right is fine, any more and you will fight the set up.
Good luck.