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Steering play in wheel - Simple fix

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JKosten

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I have read a lot of different threads about steering issues and between my 2gen and 3gen trucks I have replaced every part on the front suspension and steering.

My current truck, a 2006 MegaCab with 254k miles, has had a complete new front end put under it. Not because of the steering issue, but because of how I choose to drive it. It has had the following installed: axle truss, Carli Ball joints, 08+ steering with a Thuren TRE, a Carli Stainless stabilizer, Redhead steering box and brace, plus many other suspension items (see my profile).

I accidently ran the stabilizer without a full no2 charge for almost a year, and only noticed it because of a slight wander. After charging it back to a working range (110-150psi) It has less wander/pull but was still an issue.

That is when I found the following information across a few other forums:

http://dodgetrucksxtreme.com/index.php?topic=15157.50

http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/2010-2012-general-discussion/1408801-steering-play.html

Which is where the video is from (not mine)



The solution is simple: add a spacer to each side and secure with a hose clamp. (my truck)

6866d7d333bcc909407373708b751ac3.jpg


For reference this is inside the cab by the firewall.

Spacer dimensions (from other forum): .600"OD x .405"ID x .300" long which converted to 15mm od x 10mm id x 3mm d

Available from Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00137UBLC
Round Spacer, Nylon, Black, 15mm Screw Size, 15mm OD, 10.4mm ID, 3mm Length, Made in US (Pack of 100)

71VpUyhq96L._SL1500_.jpg


So far I have seen this added to a few factory trucks with 100k miles on stock parts and the drivers were very impressed in how much it tightened the wheel and made the truck feel new again. For my truck, it drives perfectly now. It is hard to tell that the truck has 35" Toyo Mt tires and that it weights 8k pounds.

Now I still have a few extra, and I would recommend getting together with some other local people and splitting up an order.

Hopefully someone are Geno's sees this thread and would consider adding a couple of these to any any steering kit replacement or stabilizer shock sale.

6866d7d333bcc909407373708b751ac3.jpg


71VpUyhq96L._SL1500_.jpg
 
I wonder if this rubber bushing area is to minimalize road shock to your hands? Bounce and shake would wiggle in the bushing.
 
I wonder if this rubber bushing area is to minimalize road shock to your hands? Bounce and shake would wiggle in the bushing. 
It is probably more for noise isolation....Sounds like the same reason for the DMF on the stick shift trucks
 
That is why I used a nylon bushing. Some people used brass but that could transmit noise from the steering box. But realistically between my exhaust and engine mounts I wouldn't notice...
 
Mine did this a few years ago , mine would clunk and was annoing. I put orings in there and wrapped with electrical tape and has been good since.
 
Does anyone know where else these bushings can be purchased? Amazon is saying they are out of stock. After dumping a ton of money on my front end watch this be the solution.
 
Does anyone know where else these bushings can be purchased? Amazon is saying they are out of stock. After dumping a ton of money on my front end watch this be the solution. After looking at my truck I don't think these bushing will work
 
Does anyone know where else these bushings can be purchased? Amazon is saying they are out of stock. After dumping a ton of money on my front end watch this be the solution. After looking at my truck I don't think these bushing will work

I'll bet that you could find the exact same bushing at Mcmaster Carr supplies. That ebign said, I am NOT sure that this bushing will fit your 2000 steering shaft…AFAIK, it is a slightly different design then the 3rd gen (2003 to 2007) that this mod is meant for.
 
Cheapest , easiest, mod I have done, Wow, what a difference it makes. I had a slight wander on the freeway, just annoying. Gone like the 59 Cadillac.
 
Great info. I'm going to stop at a local HW store that hasa great selection of this stuff (McLendons) and see if they have it.

EDIT: I found them! (47 cents) Anyplace that has a good Hillman HW selection should have them.
They're too long but should be easy to trim after they're in.

EDIT #2
OK, I'm a sap. Should have actually checked mine before jumpin to conclusions.
It seems our 03's are built different with a bolt and clamp arangement instead of the metal dowel shown in the images above.
#ad

DOH!

Scott
 
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My little bag of nylon bushings arrived today and I dropped one in there. Had to tap it once with a hammer to seat it in the gap. I'll know tomorrow if it handles any better.

So I have 9 of these little things left. If anyone needs one PM me your address and I'll drop one in an envelope and mail it to you.
 
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