Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

I installed the 1974 C20 front cross member on my 63 C20, and I guess I didn’t take very good notes on the tie rod ends I purchased.

Can someone school me on how this is supposed to go? The passenger side seems to look ok, but the driver side is not even close.

Can anyone show pics, maybe part numbers for this setup?

And, on the passenger side, should I use the existing bracket to mount the idler? Or use the idler arm from the 74?

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

This is the front end before disassembly.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

I think maybe I have the tie rods at the wrong spot; they should be at the inside of the steering link.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Our 73

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Ahhh... ok.
Thanks, that helps.
Just what I thought. Hopefully, I can get it assembled tomorrow.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Anyone know the best way to position the mount for the idler arm?
Kinda stuck on this.

None of the existing holes line up.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

I read a few posts and it seems I just need to insure the steering link is level and runs straight across the front cross member; then, I should be able to mark the holes.

Does that make sense? Are there any other considerations?

I may just tack it in place, so I can turn the wheels and make sure it has the proper movement.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Large C clamp to hold it ?

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Holding it in place is not a problem, it’s where to place it.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Copy whats in the photo. You have the the brake hose in the elongated hole, line up the rear corner of the flat cut off end with the bottom of the elongated hole. Bottom bolt is close to the lower flange. Get those 2 set and it will be very close. Clamp it off and check your level. and clearance in front of the cross member.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Isn’t the brake hose supposed to go there, in the elongated hole?
There’s no other hole for the brake line to go into.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Our 68

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Try and straighten them up.
I don't know why these flip randomly

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Ok, I have two questions, which will probably lead to more questions later.

1. Is there a procedure for adjusting or lining up the linkage? Since everything was totally disassembled, I’m not sure where to start. I’m planning on taking it to a front end shop for an alignment right away, but I will need to drive it there.

2. Is the pressure port connection on the steering gear the larger port?

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Make sure the center link Is correct.
Center up the pitman and idler arms.
Get the tie rods similar lengths.
Put about 6 shims in the front and 3 or 4 on the rear studs
Then set the toe in close ish

Can't help with the p/s
ditched mine for a manual box

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Why did you remove your power steering?

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Because it decided to dump its fluid all over my garage floor and had a NOS manual box.
It's mildly inconvenient at times but doesn't bother me enough to put it back.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

I get it; I like the simplicity, however, maneuvering in parking lots is a PITA.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Super simple.

Manual steer
Manual brakes
1 wire alternator

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

Manual steer & brakes I get. 1-wire alt I don't.
Why would it be better vs. common off the shelf replacement units available almost everywhere?

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

3 less wires under the hood
And was a easy way to get a 140amp alternator in original brackets.
And tied the trigger wire up under the distributor if it's ever needed.

Re: Need steering linkage help - tie rods, etc.
 

If you take pics on phone and do not want to edit them on computer, always hold phone vertical when taking the picture. If you upload to computer and have windows. Simply open the pics with paint and save them. I have found it prevents the turning. You can preview the post as well before posting to see if pics are correct.