2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission TSB to lower a 2002 4x4 for 5th wheel

[bdaniel]

Can anyone confirm that there is a TSB to lower a 2002 4x4 under warranty so a 5th wheel will tow level? I've seen references to one for 2001 and below, but not a 2002.



Has anyone actually had this done and what was involved?



Also I was around 4x4's a lot as a kid but have never had one until now. It looks like there is a vacuum line going to the front hubs and they are unlocked except when in 4WD. Is this true?



I'll probably commit today and pickup tomorrow. Invoice price - $3,000 in rebates.



Thanks,

Bobby

 

[Steve Campbell]

I can not confirm...

a TSB, however Frit'z website would have it if there isa one for lowernig the rear on 2002. I would think the same procedure applies to a 2002 as a 2001.



It is true that the front axle is disconneceted and engaged through a vacuum line. It is not the hubs, but a collar in the differential that is engaged or not by the vacuum. The hubs are engaged all of the time.

 

[klenger]

I had mine done under warranty. It seems to be at the descrition of the dealer and zone office if they want to do it under warranty. Try to make it part of the purchase deal, and get it in writing.



Info from my website to lower back end of 2500

 

[DCTECH]

rear curb height lowering kit

TSB FOR LOWERING KIT COVERS UP 2002 MODELS. PN 5066072AA FOR 2500 4X4 AND 5066073AA FOR 3500 4X4. I HAVE DONE 3 TRUCKS AND LOWERS VEHICLE 2-21/2 INCHES. WAS CUSTOMER PAY, NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY HERE.

 

[bdaniel]

Is there any "gotchas" in doing the work? I plan to do it myself. I have two jacks. One to go under the receiver to raise the truck. Then a small floor jack to raise and lower the axle as required.



Is there any chance of getting the axle out of whack and having trouble getting the U-bolts back on or the shorter block under the springs?



It looks like a really simple job on my 2002.



Thanks,

Bobby

 

[Dane]

Bobby, The gotcha is the price for the kit $600 :--)



Includes shorter blocks (this is what lowers the truck), shocks, shorter arm for rear load sensing device. and not much else.

 

[bdaniel]

Yeah, I know about the price. The dealer quoted $500+ as his cost. He ate half of that so I am paying about $270.



Reading TDR indicates that I could probably get it done for about $100 but I decided to spend the $270 for Dodge parts. Then if I ever have a drivetrain problem under warranty, the dealer can not give me any hassle. I used official Dodge parts.



I was just wondering if there were any tricks to switching the blocks and shocks. It looks so simple that there has to be a "Gotcha" someplace. It looks like about 30 minutes of work. On the 2002 there is no brake proportioning valve. Just shocks and lift block.



Thanks,

Bobby