Pitman Arm Removal

[minifridge1138]

Hey everyone,

HOW DO YOU REMOVE THE PITMAN ARM FROM THE POWER STEERING CONTROL VALVE?

I tried for a few hours today. I had a pitman arm puller, but the pitman arm was too small for the tool.

I tried a fork, but that didn't work either.

At this point, i'm almost ready to buy a new pitman arm and be done with it.

Any ideas?

 

[petes74ttop]

Hi again, the blades of the fork may be a little to wide, it should be less than 5/8 of an inch. Look at the new CV, do you see how the ball stud is tapered?
You have to wedge the fork in between the pitman arm and the CV to pop it loose.
The puller is best to use, than you don't risk damaging any thing in the steering box.
Did you take the nut off first?
You'll get it just take your time, PG

 

[petes74ttop]

Here's more info http://jimshea.corvettefaq.com/?pageid=4

 

[wishuwerehere82]

I had to use a pickle fork from under the center of the car hammering forward toward the front. It wouldn't come off from the side for me.

 

[Yoda]

It may sound funny, BUT use the biggest hammer you can swing under there a small 8oz ballpeen just doesn't cut it ..

Bud

 

[KOPBET]

Something to consider. If you want to send in a control valve as a core, using a fork may cause you to lose your credit due to damage caused using the fork and/or hammer. Pullers work, and will be easier and safer in the long run.

 

[JohnZ]

I use a tie rod end puller - it's the right size for that application.

 

[minifridge1138]

i've tried a few different pullers.
1 was too big.
The other started to bend.

I"m still trying. My goal is to get this done before next weekend.

I may have to leave work a little early

Thanks everyone.

Just so i know i'm doing it right:
Remove hoses.
Remove cotter pin.
Remove castle nut.
Remove control valve, right?
Am I missing a step?

 

[minifridge1138]

I FINALLY GOT IT!

I finally found a pulley puller that would fit.

Thanks for your help everyone!

 

[Maine Vette]

I realize it's a bit late now, but heating the outside of the pitman arm works too. You need to be real careful though, too much heat put in the wrong spot can ruin your control valve in a hurry. Yes it will probably destroy the rubber boot on the control valve, but if you're replacing the valve that shouldn't be a big deal.