I just rebuilt my drag link. The new springs are larger than the springs that I installed 39 years ago. Now the cotter pins actually engage the end caps.
As a result I have an effectively longer drag link. I removed and reinstalled the steering wheel so it's straight.
I'd like to adjust the steering stops but I can't find them. The steering wheel turns 2-1/2 turns left and about 1-3/4 right. I feel a hard stop turning right but not left.
Does anyone know if there are adjustable steering stops. I check the shot manual and can fine any mention other that they should be 2-1/8 left and right.

 

You do know each end assembles differently? Incorrect assembly will change the effective length and possibly allow the drag link to pop off a ball stud while driving. Or, if there's a significant ride height difference with the new springs you may need an adjustable length drag link to compensate. If the drag link is not close to level with the tires straight ahead you may begin having bump steer while driving.

 

Thank you. The springs are installed per the drawing. The springs are original. Are there any steering stops to adjust?

 

I'm sorry. I just noticed we might be talking about different springs.
The leaf springs are original. The springs in installed in the drag link are now back to the original size but the incorrect drag link springs, which were 1/4" shorter than the originals, were installed for the last 40 years.

 

If installed correctly the length of the springs will have absolutely no effect on the length of the drag link and the length should not have changed (unless it was incorrectly assembled the last time.) The springs are only for tension, not for determining position. As far as steering stops, turn the wheels to the side that turns the farthest and look for a point of contact between the knuckle and axle - usually a raised bump or an adjustable bolt (not certain what our trucks have without crawling under.) However I'd be surprised that any adjustable factory steering stop would create that much difference, side-to-side.

 

The springs I took out were about 1/4" to 3/8" less in length when compressed. The cotter pin would not engage into the slots with the old springs so I think they were the wrong size.
However; the number of turns from center was much different when I had the truck on jack stands with the leaf springs extended. When I took out the jack stands the number of turns was closer but still not identical left to right. About a 1/2 turn difference. That's why I'm looking for the steering stops.

 

Adjusting the pieces you did should have no effect on the original lock to lock(steering stops) Is the half turn less when turning to the left? This may be to prevent the tire from contacting the drag link?

 

If you had the truck on stands supporting the frame instead of the axle the dangling axle will/could cause the drag link to change its effective length (depending on how far the axle drops.)

Jules is on the right page. I recall alignment specs from many years ago listing vehicles that had steeper turning angles to one side.