There is about a 1/2 inch gap between my Steering Gear Box and Pitman Arm (photo). I don't know how it was before my wreck (photo). The bolt/stud(?) on the center link rubs the radiator hose when the wheel is turned far right (photo).
I know the Pitman Arm is supposed to hold up and, in general, not need replacing...but it seems to twist slightly to the right (photo). Is this normal?

Gee, I wish I had another Firebird to look at side-by-side.

Sorry, I can't resize my pics on this POS computer.

Last one...

If you're worried that the pitman arm could have gotten pulled down the splined output shaft of the steering box- DON'T. If you've ever used a pitman arm puller to take one of these things off the steering box intentionally you'll understand why that thing ain't going ANYWHERE on it's own.

I understand the idler arm is used to level the center link. Could the bolt rubbing on the radiator hose be from the poorly adjusted idler arm (resulting from the crash)?
Do center links bend easily?

FYI: I hit the divider at ~45mph. '86 Firebird

Thanks in advance.

J_