Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Steering/Suspension

[ReedC]

Hi, I just joined TDR and I love it, the knowledge I have received from this site is outstanding. I purchased a 96' 2500 CTD about 2 months ago. It is a killer truck. I have already fixed/upgraded a few things. It was pretty much stock when I got it. I was just wondering about the steering. It wonders pretty bad when going down the road, which i understand is pretty common with 94'-02' models. I found both the steering stabilizer kit and the track bar upgrade kit. My question is which kit give me the best improvement. I will eventually like to do both, but need to save the money for other upgrades .

 

[vssman]

Welcome to the TDR!



You really need to get under the truck and look at what's loose. With the truck off, reach up and twist the steering shaft while looking at the pitman arm. If the pitman arm moves horizontally prior to rotating, you should look at the DSS (Assuming the box is adjusted). Then take a pair of large channel lock slip joint pliers and try to squeeze the track bar tie rod by placing one jaw on the track bar and one jaw on the frame mount. If it moves at all, then the track bar needs to be replaced. Next jack up the truck and place it on stands. Using a bar wedged between the track bar axle mount and axle, check for movement in the bushing end of the track bar. It should be minimal to no movement.

 

[McLaughlin]

Also count the number of turns of the steering wheel "lock-to-lock". There are a number of threads on the forum that indicate the steering wander problem is worse if you have 4 or more turns as compared to 3 turns. There is a place in Springfield, MO that can provide a 3 turn steering box.



Also, check the toe in of the truck. Apparently that can have a large impact on the wander of these trucks.



For me, the trackbar made the most difference. I didn't know of the steering turn issue until after putting on a trackbar and a DSS. I do know that alignments will increase the trucks wander. My truck was better after installing the trackbar and DSS before the alignment as compared to after the alignment.

 

[LOtero]

had a loose trac bar and installed a lukes link and it helped a lot. right out of the gate I felt tighter steering. tightening the gear box also helps.

 

[ReedC]

I will take a look and see what I can find. Thanks for the input