Play - movement in steering box

[TroyaCantrell]

So the steering overhaul has begun. Last night I got the old bell crank and drag link out and checked on the pitman arm. I can move the pitman arm with my hand about 1/8 to 1/4" before it stops. Is this a normal amount of play or should it be solid?

 

[tarry99]

So the steering overhaul has begun. Last night I got the old bell crank and drag link out and checked on the pitman arm. I can move the pitman arm with my hand about 1/8 to 1/4" before it stops. Is this a normal amount of play or should it be solid?
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Troy
1/8" to 1/4" play.........No not normal for a "New" part...........used Yes!
Any play at any part in the steering system will just amplify itself as it goes downstream.........Not uncommon for the Old Ross steering. Just about every connection is metal to metal with grease being the bearing surface.
For the most part if your driving that vehicle under 50 mph and want to keep it original there are parts around to rebuild all of this.
If you haven't already figured it out they are a pain to turn or park without some movement forward of the tires..........

 

[TroyaCantrell]

Thanks.

So the end of the pitman arm looks pretty good, but could be replaced From there forward will be all new parts. I guess the question is should that steering box be replaced/ rebuilt now given that much play or can I live with it with that much play for a year or so.

I will be looking at the Saginaw power conversion but that is at least a year out with everything else I have to do to it.

 

[tarry99]

Thanks.

So the end of the pitman arm looks pretty good, but could be replaced From there forward will be all new parts. I guess the question is should that steering box be replaced/ rebuilt now given that much play or can I live with it with that much play for a year or so.

I will be looking at the Saginaw power conversion but that is at least a year out with everything else I have to do to it.

Troy,

I believe you have come to the same conclusion that most do that own those older Jeep vehicles with the Ross Steering........do I keep it original or?