Drag Link??

[Wert]

I just purchased a early '99 F350 and had the local Les Schwab do a shake down just to see how the front end was looking. They replaced my ball joints and hubs and suggested I look into replacing the pitman arm and drag link.

I think I can replace these myself will I need any special tools to accomplish this? Also does the drag link go by another name? Both the local parts stores didnt have a drag link listed for my truck....

[NotStock]

I would be suprised if you needed to replace your pitman arm, that would be an odd item to wear. Unless the tie rod end was loose and wallored out its tapered hole. If you do infact need to replace it, you will need to get one specific for the early 99 trucks. They have different splines than the later build trucks.

[tekemp]

that stuff is not hard to replace, and it is called a drag link, go to the dealer for the part your being able to steer is not worth the risk of cheap parts. Also you will need an alignment after you install them.

[NotStock]

Originally Posted by tekemp

that stuff is not hard to replace, and it is called a drag link, go to the dealer for the part your being able to steer is not worth the risk of cheap parts. Also you will need an alignment after you install them.

An alignment would not be needed unless he is replacing the center draglink (the one that runs from knuckle to knuckle). If he replaces the link from the pitman arm to the passenger side knuckle, an alignment is not needed. A couple test drives and adjusting the link accordingly is all that is needed.....

[tekemp]

Originally Posted by NotStock

An alignment would not be needed unless he is replacing the center draglink (the one that runs from knuckle to knuckle). If he replaces the link from the pitman arm to the passenger side knuckle, an alignment is not needed. A couple test drives and adjusting the link accordingly is all that is needed.....

that is true i guess im just spoiled with working at a shop haha.

[NotStock]

Originally Posted by tekemp

that is true i guess im just spoiled with working at a shop haha.

Lol, me too and it definitely saves time. Just trying to save the guy a couple bucks if its not needed.

[Wert]

Thanks for the quick responses guys... Although now I am alittle confused, I dont want to replace the wrong drag link. On the drawing the guy from Les Schwab gave me it says Inner Pitman and then Drag Link goes from the Inner Pitman (There is only one Pitman Arm right?) to the passenger side knuckle.

He seemed to think that alignment would be necessary after I replace the parts... He said they would do it for free if it was within 30days of when they did the alignment after doing the ball joints and hubs.

Where can I find a simple picture/drawing of the front suspension/steering components?

I appreciate the help! I am hyped on this truck, I just want to get this dialed so I can really enjoy it!

[CT Performance, Inc.]

Here might help..

[Wert]

Thank You! That image is exactly what I needed!

NotStock, you said that Pitman Arm would be an odd item to need to replace... How can I confirm the wear? Just give it and the draglink some shaking and see if they have alot of play?

[Dave]

Originally Posted by CT Performance, Inc.

Here might help..

Copying and stickying that Cary. Awesome pic