Steering box pitman arm play
 

This weekend I decided to address what I think is excessive play in my steering wheel for my 1930 Ford model A pickup. I don't have Les Andres book yet it should be here on the 31st. So I have downloaded some docs from this website that outline all the adjustments. I started by jacking up the front end and disconnecting the drag link from the pitman arm and going through the steps. I
immediately noticed the pitman arm has a lot of up and down movement if I grab it by the end that I can move it up and down perhaps 1/4" or more. No amount of adjustment seems to change this fact and I was wondering if this is normal or a sign that the bearing through which the arm shaft resides is worn out? If so is this a bronze bushing of sort that can be replaced?


Thanks
-Tom

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

Your sector shaft bushings are worn out. Pull the gear and replace them.

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

This also accounts for steering slop.

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

Are you sure the mount bolts are not loose, worn and/or have wallowed out the frame holes?

John

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

If the movement is even getting close to 1/4", there is more happening than the sector shaft bushes. The bolts holding the steering box to the chassis would be the first place I would go looking while also checking the pitman arm to sector shaft fit. 1/4" is a massive amount of play!

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

I got the steering box apart yesterday and the sector shaft busing are indeed shot. I was able to press them out and have some new ones on order. I think I will replace the two tooth gear as well as one side of the teeth appear to be slightly rounded off.

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

I doubt that a new sector shaft will tighten things up. My opinion is that the pinion center section is the problem. It wears while on center. Tough job changing the pinion. Good luck.

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

Here is a You Tube video of a guy working on his '28 sector shaft. Les Andrews book will really help you out with this issue. Don't reassemble until you check the book. HAte for you to have to go back and do it again.
Les Andrews will walk you through the final adjustments. Chap
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kwol...1kpxH2TLliMjIX

Re: Steering box pitman arm play
 

Yes that's the video I made showing you how to replace the sector shaft bushings in the car.