2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Steering component loose, need help with name and info

[Coalsmoke]

I have a clunk under the front floorboards (mainly when stopping or starting) so I thought I'd do the steering wheel wiggle test and check the track-bar joint. Turns out that there's about 1/16" play in it - big surprise I plan on installing a luke's link and getting the DSS (DT is too pricey right now) to remedy that. However, while checking the undercarriage, I also noticed that the steering knuckle that comes off of the bent steering arm and connects the arm to an adjustable bar also has about 1/16" - 1/32" of play in it. Is this a problem joint that I should replace as well? Any ideas of what I could do to replace / fix it with (would a luke's link work here too, or is this just a stock NAPA part)?



Many, many TIAs,

Stephan



I realize now that many people might be going "what is stupid talking about?" So I found a referenceable picture. If you click the link, look at the third picture down, it shows the DSS bearing installed on one end of the arm and the joint I'm concerned about is on the other end of the arm.



http://www.solidsteel.ca/DSS photos.htm



Thanks guys.

 

[dseabaugh]

Looks like you are talking about the pitman arm end of the drag link. Whether Luke's link will work there is going to depend on clearance. I just went out and looked at my '97 with a flash light and since the arm swings in an arc, it looks like there might be enough room. I don't think that end of the draglink would be too expensive considering it is so short. The lukes link is a lot larger than the original end as it goes over the original. My Luke's link on the track bar rubs on my front differential cover. My Moog replacement steering stabilizer mounting bolt (draglink end) hits the bearing housing on my Darrin's Brace with a loud clunk when I make a hard turn. I almost forgot, yes it is important that that joint be tight also. It being loose will allow the entire front end to wander.

 

[Coalsmoke]

Ok, thank you very much for your input. At least now I have a name for the thing. I've got more research I can do now. Thank you a bunchOo.

 

[Coalsmoke]

According to others it is rebuildable with a luke's link. What a relief knowing that I won't have to go to my gouging dealer. I wanted to get a new vaccuum servo motor / CAD actuator from them once and they said $350 just for the one part, no fork, no casing, no clips, switch, bushings, seals. :--)