Drag link question, 1956 F100
 

My steering has always been rough, kind of sticks and binds. I bought a spring scale and adjusted the steering as per the manual and with the pitman arm loose it is smooth and appears appropriate. I disconnected the drag link and when I took the end off there is no spring or other pieces in there just the two pieces that surround the ball on the pitman arm. Is this correct? The manual shows a spring, and spring guide plus the other parts. Is this the reason it is rough? Thanks.

I would suspect the steering could be quite rough, sticky without the balls being under spring pressure and the cushion and flexibility the springs provide. Check the balls for being round, replace if worn. Order and install a rebuild kit correctly.

What's the best way to change the ball stud? Take the arm off? Help!

Thanks, already ordered!

The worm gear in the box is also know to chip and give some strange feelings.

A8TZ-3A533-A .. Draglink Ball Stud Repair Kit-1948/52 F1/F2/F3 / 1953/56 F100/250.

Note in pic that basic numbers with black dot are included in kit.

Left upper picture:

Sorry for getting my nose in there. Ignore my question.