I got the drag link and tie rod off, and then started to evaluate. The driver's side spindle has enough slop that it can move almost an 1/8 inch at the end. The passenger side spindle won't move at all. I bet that one is going to be a lot of trouble to get out. I wondered why the steering was so stiff even with the wheels off.
Now the (maybe) good news: The steering wheel and pitman arm move so free that the weight of the lower steering wheel spokes centers it. I can detect no slop or binding in the steering gear. That's a good thing, right?
I am also wondering, as I am about to return the goofy kingpin set (with plastic bushings) for another set with brass bushings, should I consider the oversize kit with that much slop in the left side?
