Ford 5C3Z-3590-AA
Pitman Arm

A beginning step for servicing the Pitman arm includes swapping out the steering sector shaft drag link and tie rod end if the ball stud shows loosening in the socket or drag link bending or tie rod end taper wear occurs. When performing front suspension steering ball stud dust seal replacement it is crucial to replace the seal when detecting nicks, tears or cuts in the seal. Also skip repairs attempting to restore straightness to damaged drag links and tie rod ends. Steering drag link castellated nuts should be removed first while discarding the associated cotter pins. The first step involves disconnecting the right-hand steering knuckle outer tie rod end while also removing the left-handle inner tie rod end from the steering sector shaft arm drag link. Take off the castellated nut from the steering sector shaft arm drag link before discarding both the nut and cotter pin. A Pitman Arm Puller enables the separation of the drag link while you remove the tie rod adjusting sleeve from the drag link making note of the turns needed for removal. The installation process should follow the opposite order of removal steps while replacing all cotter pins with new ones. Position the two bolts and nuts on the tie rod adjusting sleeve clamp at an angle between 45 degrees and its opposite with the threaded ends on the left tie rod end directed forward and the threaded ends on the right tie rod end aimed backward. Finish the process by tightening the castellated nuts and adjusting the tie rod sleeve bolts and verify proper toe-in along with unobstructed visibility.