48 Ford Pickup Steering Box Questions

I'm trying to figure out how to set up the steering on the car I'm building right now.

I have a box out of a 48 ford pickup that was going to use, but I noticed there is a little bit of play in the box. I have no experience with these boxes, so I'm not sure what's normal and what's considered too much play.

If I grab the pitman, I can move it just a little bit back and forward before it gets tight. But if I turn the wheel and hold the pitman arm, it feels tight that way.

Just looking for advice and some tips on what to look for.

Also, that box has a draglink with the ball/socket type connection on the pitman arm...is there a pitman arm from another year that can work that takes standard ford tie rod ends?

thanks,
Steve

 

Anybody ?

 

ill look in my 52 f1 manual tomorow if youd like, they have the specs as far as the play goes. im sure its the same as a 48 but i could be wrong

 

It might be like an 1/8" or a little more maybe. I found some other threads here talking about adjustment.

I'm still also wondering about pitman arm options.

Thanks Misfit
Steve