ARM, Pitman, Link and Coil: Installation: Installation: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 RAM Pickup and 2011 RAM Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying Pitman Arm Nuts, Track Bar, And Frame Side

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

NOTE:

Care is to be taken to assure the steering gear does not travel more than 25 degrees off center, at the output shaft in either direction, prior to setting of the poppet valves. This is critical during the installation of the pitman arm. Failure to do this will result in the improper setting of the poppet valves. If set improperly the gear will not go into relief bypass and there is potential for heat build up and damage to the steering system. Once set, the poppet valves can not be reset.

Align reference marks and install pitman arm (3).
Install the retaining nut (2) on the pitman shaft and tighten nut to 300 N.m (225 ft. lbs.).
Install the drag link (6) to the pitman arm (3). Install the nut (1) and tighten to 54 N.m (40 ft. lbs.). Then an additional 90°.
Install the track bar (5) and tighten the bolt (4) to 54 N.m (40 ft. lbs.)
Remove the supports and lower the vehicle to the surface. Center steering wheel and adjust toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment , Standard Procedure .
After adjustment tighten tie rod adjustment sleeve clamp bolts to 61 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).