1987 V10 Blazer Steering Components

[erichawking]

Hello,

I am a long-time follower and enjoy reading the forums as the amount of information is astounding.

Currently trying to source replacement steering components and wanted to reach out to the community to verify some information and get a bit of clarification if possible.

There is much play in the steering and I wanted to address it.

Specifications:

• Factory:
• Silverado, 5.7L, 4WD, stock axles
• Current:
• 383 Stroker, Chevy / Dana 60 (front) and 14 Bolt (rear), 37” tires
• Unsure of the leaf springs / perches (stock or no)
• SkySB60 Steering block installed
• Pittman arm appears to be aftermarket
• 4” lift blocks on rear

Usage:
100% roadway, I have not, nor plan to take this off road

Notes:

• My Blazer received new front / rear axles prior to my purchase. From my perspective, it appears that all the steering components are stock.
• Very close inspection reveals no frame cracking at steering box.
• There is substantial movement / slack in both drag links and tie rod ends.
• The left tie-rod end is the long 1” version with the incorporated steering dampener hole.
• I have researched the improved cross-over steering and it just seems to be an extravagant expense for a vehicle that will never be off road.

Plan:

• I plan on simply replacing the following with stock components:
• Pittman arm
• Front / rear drag link w/ adjusting sleeve
• Left / Right tie-rod assembly w/ adjusting sleeve
• Replace rag joint / steering shaft with XJ shaft

Question:

Any components I should change / update from stock?

As I mentioned, there are 4" blocks in the rear. For my education, what would have been done to the front to allow for the current Dana 60 and 37" tires? Can I assume new / different leaf springs and/ or changes to the perches?

Thank you for any / advice. I am aware there are many opinions on this subject, I appreciate all input.

 

[CalSgt]

Seems like a decent plan... I am a fan of Moog and Moog Problem Solver parts for stock replacements.

I would start with tie rod and drag link ends since you can see they're worn out, then assess before replacing pitman arm, rag joint or steering shaft.

I'll add, ensure your leaf spring and sway bar bushings are in good shape and that ball joints and hub bearings are tight.

If you don't already have a steering box brace you should get one, running 37's it's not if you crack the frame but when....

 

[erichawking]

Thank you for the reply. Upon closer inspection after I made my post, I see the pittman arm cinch bolt was a little loose.

I will spend some time checking over the balance, but your progression makes complete sense.