2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission R/R steering box, now can't steer at ALL!

[DLSigman]

I just removed my steering box to make the recommended adjustments to it. Everything seemed to go OK with the removal, adjustments, and reinstallation, and though I could turn the steering box from lock to lock by hand while on the bench, and the steering seems good while the front end is off the ground, I can't turn the wheel AT ALL once I start it and try to drive it.



I've bled the power steering pump, and had no complaints about the power assist before I removed the steering box. If I disconnect either of the lines into/out of the rsteering gear box, start the truck and move the wheel a little, there's a big fluid mess - so it SEEMS like the pump is doing it's job.



I'm about to remove the steering gear box again and see if I can find anything wrong with it - but before I do, I'm HOPING that someone can tell me that I'm overlooking something really simple. I'll gladly admit to being an idot over spending another evening or two, or more money to get the truck back on the road.



Help?

Damian

98 Ram 2500, 12-valve, 247k, Lukes Links, stock everything (for now)

 

[hammersley]

sorry to tell you - but you probably should just do what I did last week - PUT

but you probably should just do what I did last week - PUT n a new Borgesson Box and Shaft... .



KLM Performance Inc. - Online Store for KLMPerformance.com - Dodge Steering Box

 

[WilsonF]

When you bled the pump did you have the wheels off the ground? Turn them from stop to stop many times and see what happens.

Floyd

 

[TBartlett1]

It sounds like the pump lost prime. I have changed the oil in my PS system by sucking the oil out & refilling and have had the same problem no power steering!

Running the engine at 2500 or so should prime the pump.

Another way would be to disconnect the pressure line & pressurize the reservoir 5 to 10 psi until oil comes out of the hose.



Tim

 

[Glen Pratt]

Do what Floyd said. You need to turn the wheels from lock to lock about 30 times with wheels off the ground and with the engine off to bleed the air out of the system. While you're at it I would use a turkey baster and suck out the old fluid and start with fresh fluid. If you still can't turn the wheel try backing off the the top adjustment screw a 1/4 turn after loosening the lock nut. It should only be adjusted a 1/4 turn at a time. Let us know how you make out. -Glen

 

[DLSigman]

Problem solved

Thanks to everyone for their excellent suggestions. I discovered this morning that the problem was that the pre-load setting on the steering shaft end must have been too tight - which I guess was limiting the amount of fluid that was flowing through the steering box. I removed the box and backed the adjustment back to about 16mm (from 13) and re-installed. That got my power steering back, but it was just as sloppy as before.



I went ahead and replaced the steering box with one from the parts store (didn't want any more downtime). It's much, much better now! No more slop - still not the best road feel or feedback, but much easier to drive.



Once I replace my track bar (lots of movement at the bushing end), I think it will track better, and I'll be "satisfied".



Thanks again for the suggestions.

Damian