Pitman arm facts for kids

The Pitman arm is a special part found in cars, trucks, and SUVs. Its main job is to help steer the wheels of the vehicle. Think of it as a strong arm that connects the steering system to the wheels.

When you turn the steering wheel inside your car, that movement goes to a part called the steering gearbox. The Pitman arm then takes this motion from the gearbox and sends it to another important part called the tie rod. The tie rod then moves the wheels, making the car turn.

Sometimes, if a vehicle has been lifted higher off the ground (this is called a suspension lift), a special type of Pitman arm, called a "drop pitman arm," is used. This helps make sure the steering works correctly even with the new height.

How Does the Pitman Arm Work?

The Pitman arm is a key piece in your vehicle's steering system. It acts like a bridge between the power steering gearbox and the rest of the steering parts that move the wheels. Without it, your steering wheel wouldn't be able to control the direction of your car.

Connecting the Steering System

When you turn the steering wheel, it spins a shaft that goes into the steering gearbox. Inside the gearbox, this spinning motion is changed into a back-and-forth movement. The Pitman arm is attached to the gearbox and moves back and forth with it. This movement is then passed on to the tie rods, which are connected directly to the wheels.

Why is it Important?

The Pitman arm is very important for safe driving. It makes sure that when you turn the steering wheel, the wheels respond quickly and accurately. If the Pitman arm is worn out or damaged, your steering might feel loose, or it might be harder to control your vehicle. This is why it's important for mechanics to check this part during car maintenance.

Images for kids

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  1: steering wheel; 2: steering shaft; 3: steering gearbox; 4A: pitman arm; 5: tie rod

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  Steering box, with the pitman arm just visible beneath