MTFCA Forum

Looking for some wisdom, as a new Model T (1923 runabout) owner, to how I can safely remove a Pittman Arm. The Ford Service Manual addresses using a brass or lead hammer but I haven't had any luck and scared I might damage something in the process. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

r/Karl

Here are some earlier threads on the subject:

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/33 ... 1365782371

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/41 ... 1412525632

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/50 ... 1437832293

Karl

the links that Mark gave should lead you to a positive conclusion. Forget a lead hammer, though. It may have worked 5 years after the car was built, but not 100 years...lead has too much "give". You want a good hard surfaced, heavy anvil (or another sledge) and a good hard heavy hammer. Those nice long threads sticking out are very prone to damage or bending, so beware of the limitations involving that feature presents.

Mark/Scott

Thanks!!!! Huge help.

v/r

Karl

You might consider putting the nut back on whilst you get "heavy handed" !

Last year when I needed to remove the pitman arm while restoring our 15 T, I followed the advice on getting the suggested OEMTOOLS 27175 tie rod end removing tool. It worked very well for me:

https://www.amazon.com/OEMTOOLS-27175-D ... B004FDQSQ8

try a puller such as the one shown in Neil's post. You might need to remove the 3 bolts attaching the bracket to the frame so you can slide the bracket up the shaft to get better access for the puller. Tighten the puller and then tap as you would to remove the rear wheel hub. You might need to apply some heat, but not too hot or you will change the temper of the parts.
Norm

I might be stating the obvious, but that gets A LOT easier if you remove the steering wheel and the steering gear box cover.

Learned that after spending about 4 hours banging on it with a brass hammer. After freeing up the shaft up top I banged on the end of the shaft using a 2lb sledge and a square of 2x4 scrap. Popped out on the second or third whack.

If you can get enough room, buck one side of the pitman arm with an 8lb sledge or something similar. Then smack the other side of it with a good sized hammer, 3 or 4 lb. It will most likely pop right off. I've seen that done on a PeterBilt drag link, it works. All it takes is enough force to slightly flex the taper, works way better than trying to pry them apart with a pickle fork or something similar. JMHO Dave

Just wanted to update everyone on our success and quick thanks to everyone for their help!

The Tie Rod End Remover Tool did great. Couldn't fit the swivel adapter in between so ended up using a 1/4 steel plate as a spacer to protect the drive shaft threading. Cranked it crazy tight, sprayed some WD40 on and walked away. Five minutes later we heard the steel plate hit the floor with the Pittman Arm!!!

Thanks again!

Karl

Karl

good for you and thank you for the followup