2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission steering

[BTighe]

about a month ago i put a level kit on my 97. the streering seems to be looser now. i have more play in the steering wheel and the truck doesnt want to stay strait on the freeway. when i pull my enclosed trailer which usualy is right under 4k its much worst. i had an alignment done after the level was installed but i think its about time to replace all the rod ends. what should it cost to rebuild or replace the steering linkage on my truck. got one quote for 1000bucks. sounded steep to me. TIA

 

[jandtjil]

BTighe

Does that include re-alignment? If it is the same place that did last alignment I would hope they cut you a break. I think it sounds a bit high. Do you have the inverted Y or T steering set-up? I have a Y (non-steering truck) and am considering changing to the T set-up. https://www.turbodieselregister.com/forums/showthread.php?t=114584&highlight=steering+sucks



JJ

 

[Andy Redmond]

Read my article in issue 46, a worn track bar can cause many of these symptoms. Your draglink and tierod likely has some wear. If they have been greased religiously, I wouldn't change them unless they are sloppy. Also look for slop in the taper of the pitman arm to drag link ball stud.



Likely the "geometry" has changed, from the levelling kit. Then when you take some more weight off the front end the toe could be coming out more. .



I would install both solid steel products (track bar retrofit and the Darin's Steering Stabilizer) and have it aligned to the "Brent Specs. " More caster. .



Then you should have a nice driving truck. I would compare it to rack and pinion steering like on the wife's Durango.



Good luck

Andy