question track bar????

[pathaymond]

I could use a little educating here. I hear alot about a trac bar I think I may have a problem with mine The symptom is a clunk in my steering wheel when turning to the left after a right doesnt always do it but is getting worse. . So while I was jig the dowel pin today which went really well I was checking front end stuff. I found that there is what I think to be the trac bar makes a clunk sound when I rotate it by hand this part is hooked to the pitman arm? Part off the bottom of the box. Am I on the right track here and if so what is the best replacement part for this is there a perm or more durable fix? thanks for the help and for those on the jig lists this set up is awesome I was done in no time very good system and equipment to work with Hats off to the creator or creators of this process Best regards Patrick

 

[illflem]

The track bar doesn't make noise when it wears out rather it causes a pull while braking and a drift while driving. The track bar is about 1-1/4" in diameter and is the only suspension part not parallel to the ground, it runs diagonal with the high end on the drivers side frame, this is also where it wears out. Have someone turn the wheel slightly back and forth while watching this end of the bar. If you can see movement it should be replaced. Your clunk sounds like it may be a worn front axle u-joint.

 

[shendren]

the track bar goes from the starboard side (passenger) axle to the port side frame. on the port side there is a ball joint.



the clunk in the steering is what i felt before replacing the intermediate steering shaft and toe plate at the fire wall. that solved the problem. one of the many finer points to a dodge. my first and last. i hope the engine lasts. that's the only reason i bought the pos. i certainly do love the engine though. this board has made owning this vehicle much more enjoyable.



good luck. scott.

 

[illflem]

Scott, how did your trackbar replacement come out, can you feel a difference?

 

[shendren]

yes bill, it came out nice. i checked it again tonight. absolutely no movement at all. the track bar folks are sending me a boot (now that it is put together). they changed their mind after i called them after hearing reading your comments.



i torqued the axle and ball joint per service manual specs. roughly 135 and 65#'s.



can't tell much difference around town. i haven't went back north yet. due to just after easter. i'll get a better feel for it then. thanks. scott.

 

[pathaymond]

Thanks so much for the education and info guys I will investigate further. Scott this is my second cummins first one was a 93 the things are tough as nails keep the filters changed and the service up and the engine will make it to over 500K my 93 had 500 plus and still ran strong. . again thanks for the information and advice as to what the clunk might be. . As much as I have had to tinker with diff problems on this truck There is no way I would ever be dissapointed in my ownership. I have a friend with a furd and that truck will never stand up to the dodge and mighty cummins. . Thanks again guys