Shortened Pitman Arm

Thom IV

Thom IV

Senior Member
Fellow Ford Barners:

I am hoping for some feedback on the satisfaction with the shortened pitman arm.

My "A" steers hard. Not sure wether to instal an F100 steering box or a shortened pitman arm. What concerns me is the difference in turning radius when using the shortened pitman arm. Would someone please relate their satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the shortened pitman arm.

Thank you in advance.

Thom IV
 
I have one and really like it. I don't even notice the change in turning radius and it is easier to steer. I think that satifaction will only come if you have good steering to begin with - ie very little play in the steering wheel with the normal setup.
 
I have noticed only a slight increase in turning radius - only noticeable when in a parking lot or some other area where you make tight maneuvers. It does make for easier steering in general - I'm very satisfied.
 
I really like my shortened Pitman Arm. There is a noticeable easing in the steering effort unless the car is at a dead stop. If the car is rolling forward even a slight bit turning is much easier. As for less turning radius, I haven't noticed that to be the case.
 
I did not really know what I had when I bought my coupe back in 1962, but it had an F-100 box. It used the F-100 pitman arm, which was about the length of the "shorten" Model A arm. What also made it turn really easy, as I believe the gear box ration had a 50% mechanical advantage over the Model A. (18:1 compared to 12:1). So added together a shorten arm (5.5"/7.0") 78% x (12/18) 67% should require about 52% of the normal effort at the steering wheel.

Additionally, mine still had the F100 steering wheel, which was larger in diameter and made it still easier to steer.

I now have a completely original setup, though.
 
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