Steering parts....
 

I am trying to "update" my 47 3600 to "modern" tie rod ends. I can find everything except a stock 53-54 pitman arm and the link that fits between the driver's side spindle and the drag link. I know my old ones can be machined, but I can't find any specifics on HOW they need machined. Just looking for someone who has modified their frontend and has these parts laying around - not needing new (my brain says new, my wallet says cheap...).

Re: Steering parts....
 

first, id never go used parts on steering. Having said that, I did the change over to modern tie rod ends. I used the stock '49 pitman arm by grinding off the ball stud from the back & knocking it out with a big hammer. No cost there. the tie rod ends were for a Jeep - dorman # 920538 (2) and 921317 (2) the tie rod and drag link were made up by a local Jeep off road shop. Cost me all of $125.00 for all parts & labor.

Re: Steering parts....
 

I have everything apart EXCEPT the ball on the pitman, and the ball on the driver's side link. I have been beating on them and they WILL NOT MOVE!

I have the drag link built and new tie rod/ends, all I need it the pitman and that link!

Re: Steering parts....
 

try drilling a hole from the back side in the ball stud. that should loosen it enough. if that doesn't work, try a big press. they will come out

Re: Steering parts....
 

There isn't much "used" on a 54 or later pitman arm as far as wear goes. Finding one is an issue because no one makes replacements.

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Well - I took the over to my Amish neighbor's machine shop, and he got them out! Is there anything that needs done to them now, or are they good to go?

Re: Steering parts....
 

yup....

Re: Steering parts....
 

That's great, nice to have good neighbors. I'm curious how does he power his lathe?

Re: Steering parts....
 

All of his machines are run by a 3 cylinder Lister Diesel motor, and line shafts.

Re: Steering parts....
 

That's the way they do it here too.

Re: Steering parts....
 

are you running a stock front axle or a dropped one? if its stock, the tie rod ends will mount into the top of the spindle arms with the tie rod over the spring like stock.
if its a dropped axle the tie rod ends must mount under the spindle arms with the tie rod under the springs. depending on which tie rod ends you have you may need to have your neighbor re taper the spindle arms.

Re: Steering parts....
 

It's stock....