What is the condition of the Pitman Arm that needs to be inspected?

The condition of the Pitman Arm that needs to be inspected is that it should be secure to the gearbox. The Pitman Arm is a critical component in the steering system of a vehicle, connecting the steering gear (or gearbox) to the steering linkage. It plays an essential role in transferring the motion from the steering wheel to the wheels of the vehicle.

When the Pitman Arm is secure to the gearbox, it ensures that the steering system operates properly. If it is not secured, it can result in a loss of steering control, which poses significant safety risks. Therefore, during a pre-trip inspection, confirming that the Pitman Arm is tightly fastened to the gearbox is crucial to ensuring the overall safety and functionality of the vehicle.

Other conditions, such as being bent or broken, being loose, or needing to be painted, are not acceptable for the functionality and safety of the vehicle. A bent or broken arm can hinder steering performance; a loose arm can create unpredictable steering behavior, and while aesthetics are important, the primary focus during a pre-trip inspection is on functional integrity rather than appearance.