Happy Thanksgiving to All-
I’m rebuilding the front suspension on my 71 Barracuda. Most of the parts are from Moog, along with upgraded the T-Bar to the 1” variety (when they were on sale for $200), front sway-bar from PST (G-Max hollow bar), LCA weld-on stiffening plate, and had to replace a few bent parts; driver’s side strut rod, LCA pivot.
Anyway, just like several others here, the pitman arm is the wrong one. O’Reilly’s sold me the 72-73 (larger) pitman arm. Having read many of the suspension/steering threads, this is a fairly common issue (right Dutch?). Since I’m taking my time on the rebuild, started last Labor Day weekend, I gave some thought to my alternatives. One such alternative is to go with a gear box that matches the pitman arm. Several of the members here upgraded their gear box to the 1989 Dodge Diplomat SE (police) gear box. O’Reilly carries the gear box, power steering pump, and hose.
Here’s the question for you:
1. If I replace the gear box, P/S pump, and hose, is there any problems that will raise its ugly head during install?
2. Since all three pieces come from the ’89 Diplomat, is it safe to assume that it will be a direct remove-and-replace operation?
General Info: 1989 Diplomat SE (Police)
Cardone - Steering Gear Box: Part# 27-6515, Price $160.99
Cardone – P/S Pump: Part# 20-7848, Price $46.99
Powercraft – P/S Hose: Part# 71137, Price $15.00
Thanks in advance for your help
Ron