[cadillac kevin]

So I finally got my impala ss steering box on. I line up the pitman arm with the threaded stud from the steering rack, go to put the castle nut on, get it halfway on and the threaded stud starts spinning. So I'm currently SOL. Anyone know what to do? Do I need to replace that threaded stud? If so, how would I do that?

 

[csbuckn]

What car? You'll have to put some pressure on the center link and/or hit it with an impact.

 

[cadillac kevin]

What car? You'll have to put some pressure on the center link and/or hit it with an impact.

My Fleetwood brougham. I tried putting pressure on the center link then using a hand ratchet. I don't have an impact.
When you did you steering box, did you have this problem Sam?

 

[carnut]

Must use an impact gun. That's how its assembled. An air impact gun spins the nut faster than the tapered shaft can spin.

 

[cadillac kevin]

Must use an impact gun. That's how its assembled. An air impact gun spins the nut faster than the tapered shaft can spin.

Guess I will be borrowing an air impact then.

 

[carnut]

They make battery powered impact guns. You can probably rent or leave a deposit at an auto parts store.

 

[csbuckn]

I didn't have the same issues but my center link was new I think.

 

[larryinalabama]

Hit the pitman arm with a hammer to seat it in.

Its also likely the threads are a little bugered up.

Some neddle nose vice grips may also help.

 

[csbuckn]

Might wanna hit the center link, the pitman isn't really gonna move much since it's bolted to the steering shaft in the gear box. That idea should work though, try to hammer it into the seat. Maybe a c-clamp.

 

[the APEMAN]

Honkin' channel lock pliers work to push the parts together and apply friction from the stud to the pitman arm. Remove the nut, Thread it back and fourth progressively until the pieces bite.

Cursing optional.

 

[jayoldschool]

Also, you need to use the later pitman arm (94-96) to match the later box. Sam should be able to confirm.

 

[cadillac kevin]

Also, you need to use the later pitman arm (94-96) to match the later box. Sam should be able to confirm.

Done. I took the pitman arm with the box and installed it as one. Also helps with alignment.

 

[csbuckn]

I can't remember which pitman arm I used but there was one that went around the steering dampener and one that didn't. If you change from your current one, the alignment will change.

 

[cadillac kevin]

I can't remember which pitman arm I used but there was one that went around the steering dampener and one that didn't. If you change from your current one, the alignment will change.

http://s935.photobucket.com/user/csbuckn/media/_DSC0314-2.jpg.html

Might explain why I had to fight with putting the steering shaft on the spleen on the steering box (just a hair off, but enough I had to slightly reposition the box).
Since you replaced your center link, which would you recommend? I got the nut 3/4 past the top of the threads with an impact, but couldn't get it any further.
I figure I might as well replace it, since I don't feel like driving it like that (with the castle nut not fully/ properly seated). Anything else I should replace (bushings on it are newer- 2012)

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Also, looking at them on rock auto, moog has one that is listed "for armored body". Does anyone know what that means? I.e. will it still fit my car?

 

[csbuckn]

I think the armor body ones have bigger joints and won't work, not 100% though. I don't have a preference of center links, I usually just buy the best value.