2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission steering shaft

[PARTSMANAL]

Has anyone replaced their steering shaft with a new one from dodge? I bought one but is is different and my dealer can't tell me why. The new one has a rag joint that the old one did not. I you figure the rag joint to go toward the strg box the ends are backward. The ends appear correct if you turn the shaft 180 from the original. I have a 96 3500 two wheel drive Thanks

 

[Dennis Garrett]

I have a 97 2wd, My steering shaft got sloppy, & made a clunking noise at about 90k. I got a replacement from Dodge for about $100. It was a different style, but it is an upgraded part #, for later trucks. I guess the originals on our trucks were a problem, so they replaced them with the upgrade. I think it's the same on 98's & up? Anyway, at 175k, it still feels like new. (Original steering box too, no problems)

 

[KSTRS]

Do yourself a favor & take the sloppy POS back to the dealer, Then go to..... http://www.windrockoffroad.com/default.asp & order a Borgeson shaft. It is a much better shaft with U-joints & likely wont cost much more than oem (but will likely last much longer). Sorry about the 2nd plug today... I have no affiliation to these guys, they just gave me great service on a couple of recent purchases.

 

[vssman]

I assume what your calling a "rag joint" is the rubber coupling. I believe they go toward the firewall. I'm not trying to start a war, but the stock I-shafts are just fine. They have roller bearings just like the aftermarket units. Keep in mind that the aftermarket units may (I stress may) give you noise as they don't have to build it to DC specifications. Plus they put food on my table.