Cadillac & LaSalle Club Discussion Forum

Cadillac & LaSalle Club Forums => Technical / Authenticity => Topic started by: jeff elliott CLC #23590 on March 27, 2010, 07:46:03 AM

Title: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: jeff elliott CLC #23590 on March 27, 2010, 07:46:03 AM
hi,
is it possible to replace the ball joints on either end of the drag link, or do I need to replace the complete item.
regards Jeff
Title: Re: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: Dave Shepherd on March 27, 2010, 09:25:03 AM
You will need the complete center link.
Title: Re: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: jim thomas on March 27, 2010, 03:03:10 PM
IFt ii's strright(the center nlink) replacce the TIE RODS  ends , availabl at NAPA, talk  to soomeone  who has been there the longest. uji
Title: Re: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: jeff elliott CLC #23590 on March 30, 2010, 05:55:24 PM
thanks for replies,
the play on the drag link was picked up by the mechanic who carried out the annual  M.O.T inspection on my car, the car passed ok, however, it will need looking at in future, the play is at the driver side (pitman arm joint) I think as I was only offered a quick glimpse of the problem.
looking at the diag, of the steering linkage in the workshop manual (fig.9.2) it would appear the play is between the pitman arm and the drag link, any advice welcome, napa unfortunately don't ship to the UK.
regards Jeff
Title: Re: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: Dave Shepherd on March 30, 2010, 08:07:24 PM
Check Rockauto.com.
Title: Re: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: "Cadillac Kid" Greg Surfas 15364 on March 30, 2010, 09:27:39 PM
Jeff,
The ball joint where the pitman arm is attached to the drag link (or center link) is a part of the center link and not usually replaceable.  A worn center link to pitman arm joint results in erratic steering and the car will wander.  Again depending upon the severity of the joint this can range from just annoying to a dangerous condition where the vehicle should not be driven.
This ios a part that used to be reasonably priced when MOOG still made it, but is currently not being produced by the "majors".  The last 2 that I bought were from a company called "Rare Parts", and I have had exceptionally good luck with them.
Greg
Title: Re: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: The Tassie Devil(le) on March 30, 2010, 09:44:45 PM
If it is only the Rubber Bushing that is gone, then I am sure that there is a place in England that can "re-bush" it for you.

There is a place here in Australia that I have used years ago, but the postage would be horrendous.

Bruce. >:D
Title: Re: 76 CDV drag link
Post by: jeff elliott CLC #23590 on March 31, 2010, 03:38:12 PM
Thanks for all replies,
once again the CLC has come up trumps, I bought a drag link from rock auto today at $42.79 (bargain) ,however, I'm having to pay + $70 for shipping and UK taxes (sigh) that's life.
regards Jeff