REMOVING THE PITMAN ARM

Unscrew nut

Use a six-point impact socket on a breaker bar to undo the large Pitman arm nut. If you lack a stout vice and workbench, remove the Pitman arm with the steering box still attached to the car.

Pull arm

Use a puller to remove the arm from the shaft’s tapered splines. It’s likely to be reluctant. Leave a nut on the shaft to prevent distortion. Tap the arm back and forth to assist its release.

Removal tips

Soak the tapered joint in penetrating lubricant for as long as possible in advance. Use heat, but sparingly – it can weaken steering components. Be similarly restrained with the hammer.