Pitman arm question

[flatbed82]

If a person was going to swap a 73-87 suspension and steering linkage in a 1969 c10 that has power gearbox, what pitman arm would you use to hook it up to the 73-87 linkage?

[CastIron]

I think the 73-87 arm would have the correct geometry to match the rest. Having said that, why not use the newer gearbox as well? I think they have a better feel while driving. I personally am running all 1969 suspension/steering on my C1500, except I got the steering gear off of a 73-87 when I added power steering. It steers pretty nice.

[alsriv2]

I just completed the transformation of the steering system in my '69 due to the addition of disk brakes in front. I bought the whole steering system from a '79 Suburban, idler arm and pittman arm included. (and of course the spindles) I am keeping the '69 gearbox as there are no leaks or issues with the power steering. We changed the ball joints in my '69 arms to the '79 ones, and used everything else from the '79. Everything fit and is working perfectly. I also purchased new 6 lug disk rotors as I like the rims I have and didn't want to change everything to 5 lug.

[Mike C]

I was going to suggest using all of the newer parts as above, but I WOULD swap to the newer steering box if it is a variable (and should be faster) ratio box.

[flatbed82]

Originally Posted by CastIron

I think the 73-87 arm would have the correct geometry to match the rest. Having said that, why not use the newer gearbox as well? I think they have a better feel while driving. I personally am running all 1969 suspension/steering on my C1500, except I got the steering gear off of a 73-87 when I added power steering. It steers pretty nice.

I don't have the 73-87 steering gearbox and the one on the 69 has been put on recently. I had to replace the crossmember on my 86 GMC due to a rust through spot, used a 78 c10 crossmember to replace it. I have everything to use from the 78 besides the crossmember and gearbox. The guy wants me to swap discs on the front and in trade he is giving me a popup camper.