2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Any Way To Ajust Play Out Of Steering Box?

[94ram]

Hello, My steering box has a lot of slop in it. input in does not translate to immediate output.



Is there any way to adjust?



Thanks to all who respond.

KB

 

[Joe Mc]

Kerry,



Welcome to the TDR. Please develop a signature so we can better assist you, basic stuff is all that's required: year, type cab, auto/stick, 4X4, long bed, etc. You can put bombs and other mods as you go later on.



To your question - most steering boxes have a nut with an allen (or torx) screw sticking out of the center of the nut to adjust play in the box - the nut locks the adjustment. I would first make sure the play you are experiencing is is in the box by having someone work the wheel to and fro while you look at everything. Just to be sure the play is not in the steering wheel to shaft, shaft to joint or shaft to box. You should really get a shop manual, not just for this step, but just because it is a very valuable resource - in addition to the TDR - it will be the best money spent on your truck. Anyway, you hold the screw where it is then brake the nut loose - try turning the screw in 1/4 turn, lock the nut and see if there is a difference - be sure to check all other areas mentioned, before just adjusting the play in the box - if you set it too tight you will be replacing the box in the not so far future :{ and they are not cheap :--) . Usually about 1" - 1 & 1/4" at the steering wheel itself is good play, too much or too little can cause over correction and promote the dreaded wandering back and forth going down the road .



The "shop manual" I mentioned earlier is not a Haynes or Chilton, it is a true Dodge Truck Shop Manual. When I got my 99 in May 02 I found a number to call and order the manual in the back of the "owners manual". Good money spent, it has been almost as helpful as the TDR over the years. If you don't have the owners manual and would like the number let me know - I'll locate the owners manual or the shop manual and provide the numbers to you.



Best of luck with your truck, and once again welcome to the TDR - happy motoring and happier wrenching to you.



Joe Mc

 

[Thomas]

Take a look at TSB 19-10-97 thanks Dave Fritz): http://dodgeram. info/tsb/1997/19-10-97.htm

 

[Joe Mc]

Take a look at TSB 19-10-97 thanks Dave Fritz): http://dodgeram. info/tsb/1997/19-10-97.htm

Very good Thomas - thanks for the link.

 

[RBallard]

Factory Service Manuals

Speaking of FSM, here is a link to the 03,04,05,06 manuals , just look on the left side. I found it for the 01 at a different location and saved it to my PC but for the life of me I can't remember the link.

 

[94ram]

thanks for the help guys!



KB

 

[JL penner]

get ready for a new steering box. I did the adjustment on mine (helped a little) and within 6 months it was puking steering fluid out. I have the PSC and DSS installed now and it's like brand new!