2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Crooked Steering Wheel

[rogerblind]

I just got my new 2002 quad cab. The steering wheel is not straight when driving down a straight road. Is this an easy fix I could do myself without taking it back to the dealer and letting them screw up something else while probably not fixing the problem (or telling me "it's normal")?

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

Loosen the two clamps and turn the sleeve that connects the tie rod end at the pitman arm to the rest of the linkage. Retighten clamps, 1997 manual says 40 ft lb.

 

[DBCooper]

You can adjust the drag link that goes from the pitman arm to the right side. Loosen the clamps and turn the split part of the shaft the direction needed. I usually go the wrong way first. A little goes a long way. Hope this helps.

Dan

 

[DBCooper]

Wow, you're fast Joe! Must've replied at the same time.

 

[rogerblind]

You are both quick! Thanks a lot to both of you. I knew it should be easy, and I didn't want to break my record of never taking one of these trucks back to the dealer. I'll try it as soon as it stops raining. I assume that this adjustment will not affect the alignment?

 

[Shelby Griggs]

WARNING POINT BOLTS OUT

The advice above is right on, but unless you want to wipe out your stabilizer shock, make sure the long threaded portion of the bolts are pointed away from the stabilizer when you get done.



Shelby

 

[CumminsPower98]

Just another little tip that might make it easier. Here is how I got mine dead on several times in the past. I just get in the truck and drive it straight ahead so I know it's going perfectly straight and then leave the key unlocked, get under the truck and adjust until the steering wheel is straight. This works great for me.

 

[rogerblind]

I finally did this adjustment today. Thewheel is now straight, but I can not keep the bolts pointed out like I was advised to do to avoid damage to the steering stabilizer. The clamps turn with the split sleeve. I can not turn the clamps on the sleeve. Any advice anyone?