Pitman arm removal

[ace124]

Im trying to remove a pitman arm from an old steering box i have but the darn thing seems to be rusted on.
Ive tried 2 types of Pitman arm pullers turning the puller screw with a 2 foot breaker bar to the point i feel the puller will break but no luck. Ive had it soaking in wd40 for 2 days now also.
Its impossible to grab it to put in a press.
Also tried hitting it round its perifery whilst the puller is on it , still no good.
OXY? i know i shouldnt use it on steering components but what other option is there?

[mdrburchette]

It doesn't come off....at least, I haven't found a way to get it off. Maybe someone else will chime in.

[ace124]

It doesn't come off....at least, I haven't found a way to get it off. Maybe someone else will chime in.

Hahaha.... Thats what im saying!
Ive taken 2 others off this weekend, all came off without too much of a headache. This one wont!

[MNspiderman]

sounds like you need a torch to heat it up so the metal expands. If you don't have a torch, you can try a propane torch (plumbing torch) preferably with mapps gas because it burns hotter.

[ace124]

Im a little hesitant to heat up steering components like i said.
I guess if it doesnt pop today...ill have to apply some heat.

[MNspiderman]

Well, I am sure you know this but I will say it anyway. You only heat up the arm around the center shaft/bolt area. That way the arm will expand off of the center shaft. because thats what head does to metal. Making the fit "looser" than it should. I know heat will travel up the center shaft, but its a small chance you will have to take. Chances are nothing bad will happen anyway. Of course when it pops off you will immediately cool the shaft.

[ITA124]

ACE124,

How you going mate? I would drown the thing in Penetrene and leave for a while (day or 2).

I would apply heat, but not too much. No gas axing and start swinging with a nylon mallet. The heat transfer may bugger the seals though.

If you aren't fussed on keeping the arm, then I would cut the arm to the hole. This will release it no probs.

Are you going to the Concorso on Sep 12? Check the Fiat Club of NSW website

[ace124]

Gooday Paul.
Im convinced this one is rusted on permanently.
Ive actually pulled 3 off in the last couple of days, this one wont come off.
I have new seals so i guess im left with no choice but to oxy it.
The way im going i wont be done by the date of the concorso, which is a shame.
Ill be there, but the car wont be unfortunately, as im waiting for some parts.
You wouldnt have a spare short shaft AC steering box would you?

[ITA124]

You wouldnt have a spare short shaft AC steering box would you?

I don't, but I'll ask around. This maybe a borrow item though

[majicwrench]

I wouldn't worry too much about heating it, just don't get it cherry red. Having pulled pitmans off of everything imaginable in the last 30years, I can't believe a quality pitman arm puller will not remove it.