Back in the 70's I think in the big Direct Connection book it might have said to heat the pitman arm and the idler to lower the drag link. Anyway, that's what I did to clear the pan at that time . Bent them both down to the same measurement from the ground and had a re-allighnement done. never had any steering problems at 130MPH. Now have a tubbed pan with the same steering modification.

it's ok to butt heads, just don't do it with a butthead