Lowering Center link (drag link)?

[Nkempski]

I have a 1973 Swinger with a 400 and pro parts headers. A center sump Milodon oil pan. I am having some minor clearance issues with the center link and driver side tie rod end. If I dropped the center link by a half inch, I'd be fine. I switched the center link, pitman, and idler arm to the 1970-72. That gave me a bit more clearance. Anyone use any aftermarket pitman/idler arms that lower the center link? Shims? I'm close, just need a bit more room.

 

[RustyRatRod]

The Mopar Performance suspension manual covers all that in depth.

 

[Nkempski]

The Mopar Performance suspension manual covers all that in depth.

Thank you. I can't find that online. I can find the chasis manual, which I think will cover it, but can't find it readily available.

 

[Professor Fate]

I don't know how much it will help you, but Ma Mopar had a dedicated pitman arm for the factory big block A bodies. Firm Feel still offers repros:
Firmfeel Mopar Suspension and Steering
Plus, you could try shimming the motor mounts up a bit.

 

[RustyRatRod]

Here's the part number. Happy huntin.

P5007160

 

[Jim Lusk]

The later linkage should give you more clearance, not less.

 

[65Val]

Shim the engine mounts 1/2"?

 

[Nkempski]

Thanks guys. I am using a motor plate and the mounts are all welded in. I need to see what shimming the plate will do to the header clearance in other areas. Thought I had this issue handled, but after driving it a bit, the center link is still rubbing. I switched to a 72 center link set up because I got more clearance with tie rod ends, but now I'm having the oil pan clearance issue.

I'm going to keep reviewing some old threads and see what I can find. Ordered the manual that was recommended too.

Long story short, should have went with a small block. Thanks for all the help!