Nwf springless arm trouble

[big dan]

I got my nwf springless arm for crossover on my Dana 60 today and couldn't wait to bolt it up.

Got it installed and threaded the adjuster in. Threads were a bit sticky but it was turning ok. Got it tightened and torqued it to 20 ft lbs (torque spec I found said 10-30).

Kingpin was still loose and wobbly so I put a ratchet on it to turn a bit more and it wouldn't budge. Loosened it off about 2 turns and it got stuck. Tightened back about 1/2 turn and it got stuck. Tried to back it off and rounded off the hex head on the adjuster. Now it's stuck with no way to turn it.

Thought about heating the arm and trying to turn it with a pipe wrench to get it out but I don't want to screw it up any worse.

Should I just try to get a replacement arm? Did I get a blem or is this something common? Search didn't bring up anything so I'm assuming this doesn't happen too often.

 

[ryoken]

call em and b*tch...

 

[nvrenuf]

I don't know anything about springless arms but since you just got it I'd hold off until you can talk to NWF. Don't want to take a chance on making it a brand new paperweight.

 

[big dan]

I don't know anything about springless arms but since you just got it I'd hold off until you can talk to NWF. Don't want to take a chance on making it a brand new paperweight.

This is what I was leaning towards, though it is a pretty sweet looking paper weight, I need to be able to steer.

Mostly I was just curious if anybody else had this problem.

 

[big dan]

Just to update this issue, a replacement steering arm and prepaid shipping label for the return of the bad arm was shipped out to me first thing this morning

No hassling was involved, just explained the issue and they said ok we'll get a new one on the way. Got a tracking number emailed and should have it by the end of the week.

 

[ryoken]

good to hear customer service has improved there...

 

[skunked]

sounds like the threads in the arm were fubard, glad to hear they took care of you.

Also, make sure you keep an eye on those springless arms. As the bushing wears you'll notice the arms loosen up, I've had to adjust mine once already.