Drop Pitman Arm vs Steering Block

[kwhunt]

I just had a question regarding a Drop Pitman Arm VS a Steering Lift Block.

Vehicle - 1987 Chevy 3/4 ton

I will be installing a 3 inch Tuff Country Lift with a shackle flip in the rear. To correct the geometry of the steering i have 2 options Drop Pitman Arm(#SKY-CA50) VS a Steering Lift Block(U9013-3"). Are there any differences between them or any advantages to either?

Thanks!

 

[highdesertrange]

why not a new steering arm. that's what I would do. highdesertranger

 

[crazy4offroad]

The block makes you depend on the shear strength of the longer bolts it requires. Steering arm is better IMO

 

[MadOgre]

Ya get a new raised steering arm! The block uses 4" longer bolts/studs vs the steering arm only requiring new nuts.

I have a 4" block and it works ok. But the steering arm will put your ball joint back in the correct position that the raised block can not do, because the block has to raise the 4" in the direction of the angle of the steering arm pad, putting the ball joint in a rearward position from stock. The steering arm is corrected for the angle to put the ball joint back in the stock position.

The steering arm is also nicer looking when your done.

I just got a ProComp 4'" raised arm for $83

 

[bucket]

Drop pitman or raised arm: Good.

Drop drag link or steering block: Not so good.

 

[Georgeb]

Just a thought on this. Have you reinforced the frame around the steering box? If not you should as the drop arm will increase the leverage (moment load) on the frame.

 

[highdesertrange]

I always reinforce the frame at the steering box on a 4x4. weather it's cracked or not. an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. highdesertranger

 

[MadOgre]

The drop arm should be avoided at all costs! Because of the stress it creates both on the frame and the steering gear itself and the fact that it throws the geometry off because it is not corrected to keep the ball joints in the factory locations.

The raised steering arm is the only real, proper, good solution!

 

[Don5]

I always reinforce the frame at the steering box on a 4x4. weather it's cracked or not. an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. highdesertranger

I agree. OP please pay close attention to this post above.

The raised steering arm is the only real, proper, good solution!

^kwhunt -this is your answer right here. Avoid the other two options. You will not regret it . Good Advise MO.