2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission steering box?

[JBROOKS]

My father inlaws 01 2500 diesel 4x4 has some play in the steering. I checked the trackbar and it was a little loose, so I put a Luke's Link on it. It didn't fix the problem. After some more head scratching and some help from 4 year old step son, I think the steering box is bad. I had him turn the wheel back and forth (engine off) I found a small noise and some side to side movement on the output shaft. Do you think that this is my problem, if so what would be the best thing to do price and quality wise? I found a reman ARC box for 200. 00. It's supposed to meet or exceed OE specs? Thanks for your help. ps. The little sucker reached up layed on the horn while I was under there, scared the s out of me!!!

 

[EKlem]

If you are seeing movement on the steering box shaft, you probably need to install a dss which is a brace that adds another bearing on your steering box shaft below the pitman arm. If there is a lot of delay from the input shaft turning before the output shaft does, then you might need a new box but it sounds to me like you should start with a brace first.

 

[JBROOKS]

Thanks alot for the info. My father inlaw and I were just checking it out some more we are gonna try a new box. It just seems like there's way to much play. We can turn the wheel a good inch an a half before the tires start to move. Seems to be a little fluid leaking also.

 

[WestTN]

You can adjust the box, but you need a service manual as the adjustments must only be done in the correct sequence.

 

[zstroken]

There are two adjustments for the box. One is a set screw/jam nut. It will take care of most problems. Then you can also adjust the preload on the mainshaft. Get a service manual and it will show you how to do it and give the specs.