Arm, Pitman, Link And Coil: Installation: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 RAM 3500 HD and 2013 RAM 2500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

All views are typical.

Fig 1: Pitman Arm Nut & Drag Link Components

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, 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.

NOTE:

Prior to installing tapered end suspension components, clean male and female surfaces with brake clean.

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) and tighten to specifications Refer to LINKAGE, LINK AND COIL, SPECIFICATIONS .
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 .
CAUTION:
Verify that equal number of thread engagement exists on both ends of adjuster sleeve and that the adjuster sleeve clamps cover the threaded ends.
After adjustment tighten tie rod adjustment sleeve clamp bolts to 61 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).