2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Intermediate steering shaft

[EWalshak]

Does anyone know the difference between the intermediate steering shaft on a 2wd truck and a 4wd truck. The Stealership swears up and down they are different and wants $130. more for the 2wd shaft. Borgensen lists their part as the same for 2wd and 4wd. The steering box for each truck lists the same so the end should be the same and I wouldnt think the column would be different.

 

[JLandry]

The Dodge parts manual DOES show different intermediate shafts for 2wd vs. 4wd. While I don't know the exact differences, I'm wondering if it could be length? If that's the case, since the Borgeson shaft is adjustable in length, they'd only need to offer one version.



John L.

 

[jgillott]

Just my $. 02, but I wouldn't think twice about just buying the Borgeson shaft. I had a 2005 Silverado as a work truck for 5 years and the intermeiate steering shafts were a common problem. Under warranty, GM would replace it over and over again with their shafts. Out of warranty, I just replaced it myself with one Borgeson and it was as tight as could be when I traded that truck in. They come highly recommended from me.

 

[EWalshak]

Thanks for the input. Problem is solved. Ordered the borgeson shaft. It should be here day after tomorrow.

 

[jgillott]

I'd be interested in hearing some feedback on how it works out for you.

 

[Ram4Sam]

Do the four by four trucks have a small body lift kit from the factory, that would explain different lengths... ... ...

 

[EWalshak]

I will post feedback after I install the new shaft. The factory one had a lot of slop in one of the universal joints so Im expecting the new shaft to tighten up the play in the steering wheel a good bit. On a side note I just noticed how long you boys have been on TDR. You guys are part of the veteran crowd. Nice.

 

[EWalshak]

I recieved the new shaft today and got it installed. The build quality is far superior to the factory piece. It also has a collar that prevents the upper piece from sliding down should the shaft become separated inside the steering column. This is a safety feature to cover a safety recall on all 94-02 trucks. (Which I did not know about). All play is gone. Installation was relatively easy. I had to put a flat on the shaft that comes out of the steering column. Instructions said to file it on but I used a die grinder. I will update after I drive it a while.

 

[DLangford]

EW,
Could you see or feel some slop in the intermediate shaft when someone was turning the wheel in the cab?
In my truck the Rocksolid bushing helped for awhile but now I am starting to get the feeling of some "play" in the steering.
An exam showed a little lost motion where the drag ling attaches to the pitman arm.

 

[EWalshak]

Yes , I had my son turn the wheel back and forth and I got underneath the truck and the intermediate shaft was the only place I could see movement between components.