Steering

[RRuggles]

Have the 2nd generation steering problems been eliminated in the third generation? Thanks

 

[Prairie Dog]

Can you be more specific?

 

[jwilliams3]

The conditions have improved but the usual products still help improve the loose steering (ie DSS).

 

[MickeyMiller]

I'm right at 90K miles on my '03 2500 4X4 and couldn't be happier with the steering. Very precise, returns to center quickly, tracks straight on the highway, no kick back. I did change the steering damper about 10k ago, but don't think it needed it. The original damper still seemed to have heavy resistance but I already had the Rancho, so I changed it!

 

[TMoe]

See my signature. The 2006 steering seems, new at least, as good as a Chevy, unbelievable. What's confusing is the design looks very similar to 2nd Gen, 5 link, front end, Y steering connection, etc. I spent many dollars upgrading or at least trying to improve 2001 steering and I sold it with only 22,000 miles on it. I believe they have vastly improved steering shaft, box, pump and that's where all the problems were. Stiffer frame, boxed trailing arms, better bushings, etc. , may also help. The gear ratio is also very low at 2. ?:1 which helps. Test drive one or many and make sure it is up to your liking as we all have different opinions and expectations on what is good steering. I can't live with any slop and the steering is one of the main reasons I bought the new one or I would have went to a Chevy. I haven't seen anyone mention you need a DSS on new one but if that is a good idea I would like to add one. There have been some box problems and pump problems.

 

[blmyachtsales]

Absolutely not, my 06 drives just like my 96 did with a bad steering box, track bar and ball joints. It only has 15K on it and box stock suspension and wheels. Their is a tsb that requires new steering damper and outer tie rod ends but I don't see that working. This thing changes lanes on it's own, never returns to center and the wheel gets jerked on the smallest of bumps. I feel like these dodges have it out for me but I still like the cummins.