If I have my whole front end up on a jack, I can wiggle the wheels from side to side quite a bit. I've narrowed the problem down to the pitman arm - the small arm coming off the steering box. The problem is that I've tried multiple auto parts stores and dealerships without any luck of finding one. Is there any way to repair that joint or find one online somewhere?

 

I wouldn't bet on the pitman arm itself. It's either play in the steering gear box or probably the joint on the center link.

 

I know it's not in the gearbox - I can see that plainly. It is definitely on the end of the pitman arm. Can that joint be removed? Or is the joint itself on the piece under the pitman arm?

 

You can get one off Rockauto.com easily. and cheaply. I'd get a good moog one.

That's strange as I get them from Napa all the time.

 

The joint is part of the center link. You'll have to replace the center link itself. About $122 piece.

http://www.moog-suspension-parts.com...od=MOOG-DS1173

 

The center link does not contain the pitman arm joint though, does it? It has the hole for it to go through and put a nut on...

 

I was unable to find what is labeled a "Pitman Arm" on Rockauto. The only things listed were center link, Idler Arm, and pump parts.
http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/x,ca...gname,Steering

 

Yes, it does have the joint in the center link

 

Interesting... I'll have to go look at it more closely tomorrow. In the meantime, will it be dangerous to drive with the amount of play I have in the steering?

 

How much play does the joint give you?

 

I can probably wiggle the wheel left and right about 1.5 inches.

 

I wouldn't drive it in that condition much longer if you can. Try to find an auto parts store that can order you the Moog center link, get it swapped out then have the front-end aligned.

 

Sounds good. Thanks for the help, everybody.

 

Ok for some reason they don't list the pitman arm for a D350, only for a D250. but I'm Positive they are the exact same thing. Parts systems are stupid

 

Hmmm... don't see it for a D250 either. Can you link me to it?