I have a 1971 Maverick and it need the center link, tie rods, idler arm, and pitman arm. I found all the part but the Pitman arm... Does anyone know where i can get a new one? Or what other car's would fit. It is power steering. Also what all in involved in this repair i am new to Ford and steering repairs. What ever help anyone can give would be greatly appriciated. Thanks
steering The pitman arm is located on the bottom of the steering box. I am not sure if they can be purchased individually, but if all the other stuff is worn out , you should also be thing of replacing the box as well. I believe the pitman arm is specific to either manual or power steering, so make sure you get the correct one. You may have to go used.
I take it all these parts are missing from your car? As a pitman arm is all metal and does not wear out. They are different for manual and power steering. They show up on ebay all the time, but as stated you may just be better off buying a complete gear box with the arm attached. If you place a wanted ad in the classifieds, I'm sure some of the board regulars have one at a good price. As far as installing, the biggest problem for a shade tree mechanic is getting all the old stuff off. Often a touch is needed to heat up stubborn joints, and a pickle fork or tie rod seperator is almost a must if you are using your old control arms. If you have a friend that has done it before it would be a great help. As for assembly, everything just bolts back in. You will need to get a front end allignment to finish the install. If there is a more specific question you have, just ask .......
Thank you for your responses, The car was put into a ditch by the previous owner and so i took it to Les Schwab and they said those parts need to be replaced, so it is all still in tacked i just could not find a year specific Pitman arm which is why i was wondering if i could use a later year's one.
I think I still have the power steering pitman arm off my 77 Comet if you're interested. Send me $10 and I'll stick it in the mail for you. The power pitman arm doesn't wear out, the manual arm will.
I see - we are talking about different years. You are thinking about the 75-77 cars - he has a 71 which doesn't have the ball joint.
So which years would fit my 71 any year that is before the 75? or just make sure the Pitman arm doesn't have a ball joint?
Anything 70-74 will be it - you need to specify power steering or non-power steering, as they are different. Post a wanted ad in the classifieds here - somebody will have one. Will look something like this Mustang one:
You can also try Autozone.com or Advance Auto Parts for a new pitman arm. The Vendor that manufactures these parts is "Rare Parts" Both stores' sites' list the pitman arm and centerlink.
