Hi guys, a couple of quick questions...

Do the screws that go in the end screw ALL the way in? Should they be flush with the end of the drag link? I have tried my hardest to screw them in all the way, but I cannot get them to go any further than I have...hoping to hear that that's normal

Also, I installed an extended drag link from mid fifty (since I moved the axle forward with the springs) and with the wheels pointed forward, as close to aligned as I can guess, the pitman arm is not up and down...it doesn't seem like the drag link is the correct length. Real question is simply - with wheels straight ahead, the pitman are should be perpendicular to the drag link right (which should be as level as possible)?

Thanks!

 

Not sure about the '56s, on the bonus builts the end cap was flush to slightly lower than the end of the arm. Having the right tools for this job certainly helps.

 

On the drag link, I don't think it matters so much where the screws in the end, end up. The drag link slips over the ball stud on the pitman arm and steering arm and there are rounded wear cups that mate with the ball studs. The screws are there for 2 reasons; first, so you can put the drag link on the ball studs, and second so you can adjust the amount of play between the wear cups and the ball stud.
You want a snug fit but not super tight as these parts must move together. So, run the screws in until there is no play and then put the cotter pin in to hold their positions, grease them up and start driving

Bobby

 

Thanks for the comments. I actually was wondering what tool is the easiest way to turn those caps in? You're right that could be it...

Sent from my iPhone using IB AutoGroup

 

Thanks for the help, I am going to double check they're good and tight, no matter where the cap screw ends up...but, unfortunately, it's gonna be awhile before the start driving part!

Sent from my iPhone using IB AutoGroup

 

The correct tool is called a drag link socket. See link blow.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Snap-on-Vintage-1-2-Drive-Drag-Link-Socket-Model-No-A-17-Made-In-USA-/251472231767?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item3a8ce9bd57&vxp=mtr

 

Thanks for the link!

 

TAAA-3305-A .. Draglink ~ 1948/52 F1/F2/F3 & 1953/56 F100/250.

C = F1/F100 / D = F2/F250 / Y = F3/350.

Upper pic:

 

Terms always elude me. Is there a name for this type of steering linkage vs. the type used on an IFS where the drag link connects the steering box pitman arm and idler arm and has 2 tie-rod ends connecting each end of the drag link to the wheel knuckle?

 

I think the socket for those is generally available. I ended up using the pry end of a lug wrench jack handle. I screwed them in just far enough to get the cotter pins in.