2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission No steering when sitting still

[tpoag]

I have a 2001 extended cab, 4x4 , automatic transmission with just over 12,000 miles. I bought the truck new in 2000.



My problem occurs while I am sitting still trying to turn the steering wheel. I get about a half a turn and the steering locks up. If the truck is rolling a little, you can steer, but it's not easy.



I took the truck to the dealer and they said that this is a common problem with the diesel engine when it is cold. I explained to them that this happens even after driving down the highway for 2 hours. They then called Dodge and Cummins for an answer. The explanation was that all the automatics have this same problem because the pump speed is slower when the truck is in gear and there is not enough pressure to turn the wheels. Of course, they said there is nothing they can do about it!



Anybody else have this problem?

 

[DSiemens]

I have experienced steering wheel lock-up as you have described. This was not on my Dodge Cummins but on a Ford Navistar. The truck was under warranty and the dealer replaced the steering box.

 

[lmills]

First off welcome to the site. There is one thing yoou can do too improve it. Some of us have had good luck with replacing the power steering fluic with valvoline synthetic fluid. I believe there is a TSB out also that the dealer should have known of in which they replace the PS fluid with ATF +4 transmission fluid.

 

[Floor It]

Most of the problem with this is that the power steering pump is low pressure due to the power brakes powered by the steering pump too. The power brake system doesent like high pressure, so at and idle there isnt enough pressure for the steering to work easy and smooth. Different fluid can help some but wont really fix it. The 2 wheeled drive guys dont have as much problem.



John

 

[jtwcummins]

Its call Dead Park Steer. I never had the problem until I put an AGR box on, going back to stock.

 

[Chipstien]

Tpoag, I have the exact same problem. You are not alone. However, the dealer is full of **** because if it had to do with engine speed then revving it up would make it work. I have tried replacing the pump with remanufactured pumps but after 3 pumps that didn't work as well as the original I gave up. I have tried different fluid inclluding synthetic to no avail. I am beginning to suspect the steering box but since I am not positive... ..... I would pay ANYTHING to get this steering working properly.

 

[rubberneck]

I have had the same problem off and on since new. Now with 60 K miles it seems like it is happening alot more. Drives me nuts. I was going to put a new pump on but after reading this, i dont know what to do. maybe its time for the rock ram system.

 

[Spunkys Ram]

I'm in the same boat with all of you. It doesn't happen to me ALL the time. The times I do seem to notice it is when I happen to be backing up a trailer... wouldn't it figure. I've just kind of learned to live with it. Not saying I wouldn't like to fix it though, if anyone has an answer, PLEASE SPEAK UP!!!!

 

[tpoag]

Backing a trailer with the steering this way is a pain in the butt!! I was trying to back my flatbed trailer into a tight spot between 2 buildings the other day and had to constantly try and make sure the truck was rolling before I turned the wheel. Of course, I had a Chevy guy standing there watching me and asking what was wrong!!! I don't even want to go there!



I love my truck other than the steering problems. It also has the wandering steering going down the road that takes some getting used to.

I drive a 2002 Ram 2 wheel drive, shortbed company truck on a daily basis. It always takes me a few miles to get used to the steering on my 01 when I drive it on the weekends. It's like driving a 20 year old truck with worn out steering.



So... . is the steering box part of the problem?



Terry

 

[DSiemens]

Yes, the steering box is the problem. The lock - up (no movement of steering wheel) is very comparable to a transmission that is worn and in two gears at the same time.

 

[tpoag]

My truck only has 12,000 miles on it. I can't imagine that much wear has occured in that short of a time. Although, I didn't notice the problem until this year.



Terry

 

[PKleine]

My Ram has the same problem every once in a while. If it happens, it is when cold, as in the first maneuver of the day. It hasn't bugged me enough to make me try to fix it yet.

 

[stseeber]

Steering Box

Well folks here is my sad story... In 1990 I bought a new Chevy 1500 4x4 and put 250k on it. (90% Freeway) 3 starters, 1 alternator and a radiator. ) I consider that to be a worthwhile investment. My 1999 2500 4x4 Ram with 162k has been through 3 lift pumps, 1 TPPS, my fuel guage is out and now my Transmission shop says I need a steering box to the tune of $1,600. 00 for the job. They say they do not trust any after market products. I am now shopping the job around and I think I can get it done for between $500 and $750 which seems a lot More reasonable to me. My whole point of this long diatribe is that I think we had better get used to a inferior truck around a superior engine. Any thoughts? PS: 95% freeway driving.

 

[jkern]

one of the worst things you can do to the steering on your truck to cause problems is trying to steer it while sitting still. try to turn the wheels (large tires) with 3k or 4k pounds on them just tries to grind them in the pavement. HOWEVER, that all being said... our trucks do suffer from a undersized power steering pump, but with fluid replacement, not turning with the brakes applied or sitting still will usually not cause any trouble. been living with my 99 this way all its life.

 

[duaneparks]

Originally posted by jkern

... not turning with the brakes applied or sitting still will usually not cause any trouble. been living with my 99 this way all its life.

As have I with my '01. Driving as you describe does seem to alleviate the problem somewhat, however I find myself in situations where I'm trying to maneuver in tight very unlevel areas, and your methods are harder to implement... From time to time it has been quite an experience getting the truck positioned how I want or need it.



Anyway, I'll be watching this thread for a fix as well.



Duane

 

[Chipstien]

So what is the best deal that I can get a new box for? Anyone used remanufactured boxes with any luck? I'll change the d@mn box if that will do it but they are spendy little buggers.

 

[doodad]

Chipstein , I also had to replace my box. I got a rebuilt one for $200 CAD. All I can say is that I hope it is better than the rebuilt steering pump. :-{}

 

[chuckgrif]

i had the same problem at 55k until dealer replaced gear box now the other night i start it up and pump was grow;ing only to find out top of new box started to leak all 4 bolts were loose to the point of only being finger tight it goes in wed to get fixed. Try to get them to repl. the gear box

 

[tpoag]

So ... . why do some trucks have the problem only when cold and the rest have the problem cold and hot?



Terry

 

[Mr. C]

For what it's worth, I think it might have more to do with the Hydro-boost assembly than any other steering component. Mine acts up now and then and I have noticed it is only when my foot is on the brake, if I let up on the brake the power steering comes back. This intermittent problem has been driving me nuts, I wish a part would just break so I could be sure the right part is the one getting replaced. Just living with it for now.



Mike