HD pitman & idler arms from Fabtech ???

moo snutz · May 11, 2005

Has anyone installed the heavy duty idler & pitman arms from Fabtech ?? They look to be a lot beefier than the stock units. Seems like they might help if running larger tires & doing any off roading. I'm thinking about picking a set up but don't want to lay out $300 if they're not worth it. I've had some people tell me that they're just a solution to a problem that doesn't exist. BTW - I will also have a front receiver hitch loaded with gear.

ABQFirefighter · May 11, 2005

I don't have them but I do want to put them on. There is a problem that does exist, don't let anybody tell you otherwise. The OEM components are a weak design for anything over stock (lift,tires,etc.). This is why you see parts like this offered.

Jacqson · May 12, 2005

Has anyone installed the heavy duty idler & pitman arms from Fabtech ?? They look to be a lot beefier than the stock units. Seems like they might help if running larger tires & doing any off roading. I'm thinking about picking a set up but don't want to lay out $300 if they're not worth it. I've had some people tell me that they're just a solution to a problem that doesn't exist. BTW - I will also have a front receiver hitch loaded with gear.

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IMHO, Don't waste your money, I spoke with Fabtech and they told me that using these parts could shorten the lock to lock on your steering. Just gas the factory parts and get some components made by Spicer, They will work just fine, and are much stronger than the factory parts. And for your application you won't have to take out a loan to buy them. You can buy 3 sets of the Spicer components for the cost of 1 set of the Fabtechs.

Bgdsub72 · May 12, 2005

I spoke with someone at Conejo Off-Road (local lift shop) and they said they have had many problems with the lifted chevys steering components wearing out fast. It was at the point where Fabtech was getting sued, that is the reason fabtech developed the HD steering components. I would like to get them for my truck...as it is my tie rod ends are already maxed out.

moo snutz · May 12, 2005

Jacqson - as far as Spicer goes, what does "gassing" mean? Does Spicer already make these parts or do they need some type of mold ?

Freyguy · May 12, 2005

I have the fabtech kit installed on my truck because my factory idler/pitman was shot. There is a bad design flaw becaus the factories wear out so quick. Even quicker if you have bigger tires. There are really two options. If your factories are good you can get a support kit from Cognito or Kennedy Diesel for $200-250. This will make them much stronger. Since mine were shot, I woulda had to pay about $200 for new Moog parts, then the $250 or so for the supports. I opted for the fabtech kit for less than $300 shipped, and it came with the stabilizer bar. The stabilizer bar is what helps preserve them. It does reduce the amount the centerlink can go, otherwise the idler/pitman hits on the frame, pushing them down. This is what wears them out. So, it reduces the travel, but it also reduces your turning radius a bit. It's probably only a foot or two, but I can tell the difference.

So, my reccomendation is to get the support kit if your factory parts are still good.

Jacqson · May 12, 2005

Jacqson - as far as Spicer goes, what does "gassing" mean? Does Spicer already make these parts or do they need some type of mold ?

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Sorry man, Gassing is a slang for "getting rid of something". And spicer already makes these parts. If you compare them to the stock ones they are much better made. I have them on my 02 Burban with the RCD lift and so far so good.

HEATHN · May 13, 2005

Jacqson - as far as Spicer goes, what does "gassing" mean? Does Spicer already make these parts or do they need some type of mold ?

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Sorry man, Gassing is a slang for "getting rid of something". And spicer already makes these parts. If you compare them to the stock ones they are much better made. I have them on my 02 Burban with the RCD lift and so far so good.

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hey jacqson. where did you purchase the spicer steering parts?

Jacqson · May 13, 2005

Jacqson - as far as Spicer goes, what does "gassing" mean? Does Spicer already make these parts or do they need some type of mold ?

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Sorry man, Gassing is a slang for "getting rid of something". And spicer already makes these parts. If you compare them to the stock ones they are much better made. I have them on my 02 Burban with the RCD lift and so far so good.

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hey jacqson. where did you purchase the spicer steering parts?

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UAP/NAPA sells them under the NAPA name but they are Spicer Parts. When you go in to order the suspension part you need tell them you want the chassis parts that are made by Dana/Spicer. The box will have "precision engineered" on it and it will be a bluish color. The part numbers are Spicer Part numbers and if you have doubts call Spicer and they can confirm it is their part. I have most of the Spicer Part numbers because I chucked all the stock front suspension parts in my Burban and replaced them with the Spicer Parts. Let me know what type and year of truck you have and I will give you the proper part numbers. Email me or post, whatever works for you.

1BADHD · May 16, 2005

Save your money and just get the Cognito steering upgrade kit. It will prevent any wear on new or existing components. I installed them on my BADLY worn pitman and idler arms. The difference was unbelievable! I have since changed them out for new parts. For safety reasons.

moo snutz · May 16, 2005

Save your money and just get the Cognito steering upgrade kit. It will prevent any wear on new or existing components. I installed them on my BADLY worn pitman and idler arms. The difference was unbelievable! I have since changed them out for new parts. For safety reasons.

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I Googled Cognito & could not find a website. Do you know where I can find the parts?

Sort of related - I am also going to order some tierod sleeves to help beef up the tierod. I should be sittin purty when all's done.

Thanks

1BADHD · May 17, 2005

Justin Lambert

Cognito Motorsports

1800 Art St.

Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-588-8085

661-588-8295 fax

www.cognitomotorsports.com

The kit is $200. You have to call to order. Goes on in 30 minutes or so.

ebt69 · December 1, 2005

GET THEM!!!! I bused two stock sets before I smartened up. I run 37"s on my 2500HD with the 8.1L and without these, I was good for about one shot at the desert.

The kit does reduce the turning radius a bit but who cares... They work great! Notice it more to the right then the left.

I highly recommend these!