2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Loose Steering

[Nickaru]

I just purchased a used 2001. 5 3500 CTD 4x4 and noticed the steering isn't as responsive as the 2001. 5 two wheel drive 2500 was that I just sold. I bought the two wheel drive new and only had 12,000 miles on it. The 4x4 has 50,000 miles on it. Is there anything common on the 4x4's that needs attention? I don't notice the steering until I make a lane change on the freeway and then have to pull it back to get the truck back in the lane. Any ideas? Thanks

 

[Wheaties]

We thought it was the track bar on mine until we got underneath it and figured out the steering box bearings were shot. Both seem to be common.



Matt

 

[JStordahl]

The Dodges unfortunately seem to be "wander prone. " I installed the "steering stabilizer bracket" from www.solidsteel. ca and that really makes things solid! An excellent, quality product.

 

[JTeague]

Its easy to check for worn steering components on your truck. All you need is someone to sit in the vehicle and slowly shake th e steering wheel. First thing you should look at would be the trackbar end were it connects to the frame. Also check the tie rod ends and ball joints for wear, although these will usually last through 2 or 3 trackbars. If nothing can be found that is loose, you can adjust the play in the steering box simply by turning a set screw. Look on the top of your steering box next to the radiator and you will see an adjustment screw with an allen head and jam nut. Loosen the jam nut and turn the allen screw clockwise until just snug, then back screw about a 1/4 turn. Lock down the jam nut and road test the vehicle. If the steering is tight and won't return to center, turn the set screw counter-clockwise until it steers easily and returns to center. By doing this you should notice a big difference in how the truck drives.

 

[athompson]

Just in case, the above mentioned causes check out fine, you may just need to replace the tires. My truck wandered from new until I replaced the stock tires at 4400 miles. The wandering was totally eliminated.

 

[Nickaru]

Thanks for all the info. I'll look at all that was mentioned. I have heard people mention track bar problems before. As for the tires, I didn't think of that. There is plenty of tread left but they do look arounded instead of squared off. They're wearing evenly though. Thanks again.

 

[merryman]

Quite a while back, John Holms who writes for TDR, posted that by changing the caster (I believe it was), he eliminated a tendence of his truck to wander. Any one else try that??

Is that something only an alignment shop could do??

I have looked for the article and have been unable to find it.

Vaughn

 

[JTeague]

You can change the caster very easily by rotating the eccentric bolts on the bottom of the lower control arms where they attach to the front axle. The prolem is that you don't know what the final setting is. By turning the eccentrics so the lower ball joint rotate toward the front of the vehicle you will increase the high speed stability and also increase steering effort. If you decide to try it, be sure to rotate both sides equally so they are both the same. I don't recommend it for anyone who has no experience aligning front ends. There is a TSB for steering wander and revised the toe-in specs. Take it to a reputable alignment shop and have it checked out.

 

[MAshley]

Steering wander revisited

I have a 95 4x4 that has given me fits-check all of the other parts but be aware that the factory steering box only has two bearings supporting the output shaft, some aftermarket boxes have three-ie last longer. The track bar is critical and it can loosen if the drivers nut is castle keyed. I recomend using a nylock nut so the exact seating can occur. Steering column u-joints can loosen. Ball joints can stick. Bushings in the track bar and struts can soften. Even when that is done an external steering shaft support may stil be required. Of course a expert!!alignment is necessary. I finally got mine to drive a lot better, especially on 2 lane roads. All of these fixes are cheap insurance against a head on or other air bag testing events-Good luck