Inspection of the Drag Link

cen mm 46.01.000

Warning: All steering system components are critical for safe operation of the vehicle. Failure to maintain the steering system as specified may result in loss of steering control, which could lead to personal injury and property damage.

  1. Park the vehicle on a level surface, shut down the engine, and set the parking brake. Chock the tires.
  2. Have someone turn the steering wheel from left to right. Check for movement between the ball stud end and the pitman arm, and between the ball stud end and the steering arm.
    If the ball stud end is loose, replace the drag link.
  3. Check the ball stud castle nut for looseness.
    If the castle nut is loose, replace it and the cotter pin. See for torque specifications.
  4. Inspect the boot of the drag link at both the pitman arm and the steering arm end for cracks, splits, or other damage. Replace the boot if needed.
  5. Grasp the drag link near the pitman arm end, then push and pull laterally to check for axial movement in the ball stud end. If it is loose, replace the drag link. See of the Century Class Workshop Manual for replacement instructions. If there is 1/8-inch (3-mm) movement or more, do not drive the vehicle until the drag link is replaced.
Note:
Parent topic: Steering
Document Number: 0000122429
Manual Publication Date: 2025-02-11
Topic Publication Date: 2024-06-04