2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Steering gear R & R

[BoeingDiesel]

I left my 99’ in Ca. so I’d have something to drive on our visits back. When I took it out a couple days back and got on the 91 FWY it was downright spooky. I checked the P/S pump level, had the alignment checked and new ball joints were installed one year ago. So, from what I’ve read on the forum, it sounds like I need a need a new steering gear. The problem is; my buddy / mechanic is on extended vacation in south Mx. and I don’t know of any other mech. I’d trust. Is it that big of a job replacing it yourself? I’m pretty good at wrenching and the local Napa has a couple rebuilts on the shelf. Any suggestions or recommendations are greatly appreciated.

Thanks

gregg

 

[AEdelheit]

I'd check the trackbar first, far more likely to go bad then a steering box , there not fun to put in but fairly easy, hardest part is getting the pitman arm off

 

[BoeingDiesel]

So the track bar could account for the truck to wander on the highway? I'll jack the front end up and check for any movement.
thanks
gregg

 

[AEdelheit]

Dont jack the truck up, lay under it with someone turning the wheel back and forth, preferably with it running so you have assist, look for joints moving. Jackin it up takes 5000lbs off the front axle it may not move around like it does loaded. The track bar can definitely make it wonde all over, I would suggest a 3rd gen conversion with a Thuren track bar

 

[BoeingDiesel]

I'll do as you suggest today, however, I did raise the front end last night and what I found can't be good. I was able to turn the right tire inward approx. 10 degrees and the pitman arm moved as well. I could be wrong but shouldn't the Pitman stay stationary? I might also mention the left side didn't move at all while pushing the other side in.
thanks
gregg

 

[Yo Hoot]

What do you mean by "move"?

The pitman arm (connected to the steering box) has to move. It's the main "lever" that does the steering.

 

[BoeingDiesel]

I understand what you’re saying but what I’m referring to is this; With the front off the ground and both wheels centered I can push in the right wheel in to about I’d say a 10 degree angle as though the truck would be making a left turn. The left wheel does not move at all but the pitman arm / gear box does as though the truck was making a left turn. Seems to me something is broken or worn out in the steering gear.

 

[Yo Hoot]

Put it back on the ground. Have someone move the steering back and forth and look at all the joints. You should see which joints are loose.

 

[KRStone]

Ball joints arent enough. Probably need tie rod ends replaced or do what I did... . lukes links

 

[GAmes]

I'd check the trackbar first, far more likely to go bad then a steering box , there not fun to put in but fairly easy, hardest part is getting the pitman arm off

Do 2WDs have trackbars? So far, all I have had to replace is a steering box, ball joints and two of the tie rod ends.

 

[AEdelheit]

Depends, 3500 and heavier with a solid axle will have a track bar, 2500 with IFS will not

 

[BoeingDiesel]

Do 2WDs have trackbars? So far, all I have had to replace is a steering box, ball joints and two of the tie rod ends.

I just caught that in thinking about the replies, especially with KRStone suggesting Lukes Links. The 99' is a 2WD and there is no track bar.

 

[KRStone]

Tie rod ends on steering components. Thats what i did, and track bar end.

 

[BoeingDiesel]

Thanks everyone for your recommendations, I do appreciate it. I'm going to have the steering gear replaced and see what happens and then take it to a front end shop. The truck is due for an alignment and they can advise from there. Can't do any lengthy driving the way it is as it wanders back and forth. Not good.
thanks again
gregg

 

[BoeingDiesel]

I took my 99’ to a front end shop today. One of the mechanics drove it for a couple minutes and pulled it right onto the rack. He called me out to explain the situation and then asked if I believe in God? Of course, was my response. He shook his head and said,” you must. ” He grabbed a hold of the (tie rod?) shook it back and forth and said the idler arm was completely worn out and could have possibly dropped the (center link?) free leaving the truck without any directional control. I explained that I had new ball joints installed about a year back and asked why they didn’t catch this at the same time. That couldn’t have worn down that much with the limited amount the truck was used. It was a sobering sight to see the center rod just barely hanging on. Anyhow, you guys were spot on in your recommendations.

Thanks to all.

gregg

 

[GAmes]

Wow!!! Did you get any pics?