Drag link

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Aug 11, 2011 | 10:11 PM

03F350XLT

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Joined: Aug 2010

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From: MA

Drag link

Well got my alignment today and mech noticed slop in the drag link ( the end connecting to passenger side tie rod/ knuckle ) my boot is busted on the end connecting to the pitman arm , so I went ahead and ordered both ends and a new adj sleeve. Parts and part# were a PITA to get straight as every1 is calling them something different. From drag links to center links to tie rod ends , inner and outer. Lol. Any ways any tips on the install? Pickle fork or pitman arm puller to separate? Once the entire assembally is off can I just measure it and assemble the new on the bench then install? The link studs are tapered and are hammerd in the tie rod and pitman arm tight enough so the nut won't move them correct? Torque specs on nut to tie rod and to pitman arm? I know it's a pretty straight forward install but I've never done 1 so any hints or tips would be much appreciated.

Aug 12, 2011 | 05:59 AM

drey04

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Joined: May 2010

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From: Midland, MI

It's not hard at all. I did mine almost a year ago. Just make sure your wheels and steering wheel are straight when you start and take measurements of your drag link. On my 04 they got pins through the studs to help keep the nuts from loosening I guess... they were a little tricky to get out but not too bad. When I broke the nuts loose, the side on the pitman arm came right off but the side connecting to the passenger side knuckle needed a couple hits with a hammer to pop it off. Put your orginal link in a vise and replace the old parts with the new parts, then bolt it back in. If you measured correctly it should go right back in and no alignment is needed. I don't remember the torque specs, but them bolts are pretty tight. It took some grunt to break 'em loose. Good luck.