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Pitman Arm Removal - Am I missing a step?

Posted: Sat Apr 06, 2024 4:38 pm
by Snowdog
I've been trying like crazy to remove the Pitman arm on my '61 D100:

I've loosened the bolt enough that there's now actually play between the Pitman arm and the steering box shaft.

I've tried two different pullers, and despite the wiggling, I'm not able to pull the arm from the shaft.

Is there something else holding the arm on? Risking a silly question, as I'd rather feel dumb, than break something.

Thank you,

Re: Pitman Arm Removal - Am I missing a step?

Posted: Sat Apr 06, 2024 5:42 pm
by PwrWgnDrvr
Snowdog wrote:
Sat Apr 06, 2024 4:38 pm

Is there something else holding the arm on? Risking a silly question, as I'd rather feel dumb, than break something.

Thank you,
Yup. Simply pull the bolt all the way out. It rides in a groove on the steering box shaft. Its a safety feature so if the nut gets loose it won't fall off and leave you with no steering. You could have saved yourself a ton of grief, and time, if you were to consult the FSM on stuff you aren't familiar with, such as this.
PS, mark the position on the shaft so you get it back on correctly.

Re: Pitman Arm Removal - Am I missing a step?

Posted: Sat Apr 06, 2024 6:44 pm
by Snowdog
Gotcha. FSM for 1961 just says refer to 1960 for these procedures. Thanks though.

Re: Pitman Arm Removal - Am I missing a step?

Posted: Sat Apr 06, 2024 8:00 pm
by PwrWgnDrvr
Snowdog wrote:
Sat Apr 06, 2024 6:44 pm
FSM for 1961 just says refer to 1960 for these procedures.
Now that's LAME! :banghead :shame

Re: Pitman Arm Removal - Am I missing a step?

Posted: Sat Apr 06, 2024 8:55 pm
by Snowdog
Heck yah.

Re: Pitman Arm Removal - Am I missing a step?

Posted: Sat Apr 06, 2024 10:29 pm
by BigBlockTrucks
In 60 it worked the same way. I own one. The box is no longer in it but the pitman arm is. Interesting fact. That pitman arm fits on a saginaw box from an early 80 Chevrolet 4x4 box. That’s what steers my 60 now to get power steering.

Re: Pitman Arm Removal - Am I missing a step?

Posted: Sun Apr 07, 2024 10:53 am
by Wildergarten
Snowdog wrote:
Sat Apr 06, 2024 4:38 pm
I'd rather feel dumb, than break something.
Well here's your opportunity! Pull the bolt. It passes through a groove on the shaft to lock the arm on. It must be revoved completely.

Once you get it out, you'll see it, and then your wish will be fulfilled!