Well I was adjusting my brakes a little while ago and noticed that my driver's side front tire seemed a little loose. I was able to move it back and forth and noticed that the bushing for the "part" that connects to steering box is practically gone. I believe there are 2 or 3 parts that connect from the steering box to the idler arms which allow the tires to turn left and right. I have no idea what this part is called, and I need to replace the bushing. By the way, does it have 2 bushings or is it just that one? I hope I don't sound too vague on my description. TIA everyone!

The arm from the steering gear is the pitman arm. The one connected to the frame on the passenger side is the idler arm. The 'joint' on the end of the pitman arm should come as a complete assembly. I believe for the idler arm you just get the whole arm assembly. While you're there check your tie rod ends as well. When you're all done go to a 'GOOD' shop and get an alignment. 'GOOD' = There are places that still know how to set up these cars correctly.

Thanks Finally. My car needs an alignment BAD!!! lol I had called Pep Boy's and Auto Zone asking for that bushing I need, but both places said they don't show or carry it. So I'm kinda puzzled as to what to do now. Do they sell the bushing by itself or am I going to have to buy the complete pitman arm to replace it? Maybe I can find a good one at the wrecking? What do you guys think I should do? TIA!!!

You need a centerlink, the ball stud that is worn is part of it. There is nothing to wear out on the pitman arm itself, unless you leave it losse and it wears out the splines I guess.

O ok, so then I'll need a center link? I did notice that on the same "part" of the pitman arm where the bushing is missing, there is a nipple. About how much do center links go for?

You'll find a variety of prices, try this: http://www1.autozone.com/servlet/UiBroker?UseCase=C001&UserAction=performSearch&Parameters=Auto+Store%7C%7EREGULAR+PARTS+LOOK+UP%7 C%7ECENTERLINK

You really need to invest the Fifteen-Twenty dollars for a repair manual.


Rocky

try your local Napa store, the price is usually around 110 dollars for the center link.

It seems like I gave around 60.00 for a centerlink thru O'reilly auto parts.

I checked out the Auto Zone link that Rick put up for me, looks like I can get one with a 1 year warranty for around $35 and one with a limited lifetime warranty for roughly $65. I'm not sure if I'll really need a lifetime warranty or not, but with my really really tight budget, I'll most likely end up going with the $35 center link. Thanks a lot guys, and by the way....Rocky, if everyone "invested" $15-$20 in some sort of manuel, there wouldn't be any Team Chevelle. If you've got a problem with me asking questions, or just think my questions are just too "elementary", then why leave a remark??? Nobody is forcing you....and I'm not talking about this post, you've left remarks to other posts that I've put up with similar remarks, and one that I did find as rude. I'm sorry if I've said something in the past that may have offended you or just something you didn't like. I've said my peace...laterz

Not sure why you got your shorts in a knot because I suggested you buy a manual? I have suggested this to many people on this list.

It makes no difference to me if you spend 5 hours of your time trying to figure out if your Velle has a pitman arm! I rather enjoy helping people solve there problems. I only suggested the manual because you seem like a person who wouldn't mind helping themself and learn in the process but I guess I was wrong! A manual is nothing more than a tool and if you took offence because I suggested getting something that will help you out a lot, I guess all I can say at this point is good luck finding all your pitman arm bushings.


Rocky

Never tore my frontend that far apart. You mean the stud on the centerlink is not replaceable? That kinda sucks! How about the idlerarm side?

It is replaceable-with the centerlink, same on the idler arm side.

Originally posted by dennis68:
It is replaceable-with the centerlink, same on the idler arm side. HA, you know what I meant! Thanks.

Alex, I agree with Rocky on getting a manual. There is a wealth of information in it. The wiring diagrams alone are worth the cost.