shortened pitman arm

[b ramsey]

you guys are funny. if you shouldnt weld on one, why is it made of steel?

[Marco Tahtaras]

Originally Posted by b ramsey

you guys are funny. if you shouldnt weld on one, why is it made of steel?

There are three reasons:

1. In addition to PROPERLY shortening the pitman arm, most ALSO need the ball replaced which is a second "surgery".

2. By most accounts the newly manufactured units are properly forged, decent quality and relatively inexpensive.

3. If you are truly a welder with the requisite knowledge in basic metallurgy then you already know there are "welders" and folks that believe they can weld.

We are not talking about a fence post here. Your life (and your grand kids) may well depend on it! Now that isn't to say you are not capable of doing so but those decisions are clearly up to the individual.

[George Miller]

Originally Posted by b ramsey

you guys are funny. if you shouldnt weld on one, why is it made of steel?

If you have it welded you should get a certified welder. I can weld most any thing, but would not weld a steering part.
High strength steel can have its property s changed when you weld it. You need the right rod, right heat, right penetration, and cool it right. We used to make cylinders for power plants. I had guys working for me that were real welders, lots better than me.