1 Ton Steering Box Replacement

MountainRam · #1 10-09-2009, 09:49 AM

Now that My track bar is in order, I want to replace my steering box. I have read of people putting in the 1 ton box and claiming it was better and was only $200.

I would appreciate some advice on whether this is worth it or not as it appears that 1 ton box is not variable. For highway driving, is this setup less desirable as there is more boost at high speeds?

Also, does anyone know where to get this box for $200? My dealer quoted me a $400+ price.

Details about my truck are in my signature.

Mike

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dsertdog56 · #2 10-09-2009, 09:57 AM

Other than the non variable steering a one ton box is pretty much the same as a 1500.
I should digress, as I got this info from another site when I was researching my 1 ton TRE install.

Ramman18 · #3 10-09-2009, 02:28 PM

I haven't heard the 1 ton boxes are any better. All I read is Dodge boxes are poor quality. PSC used to be highly recommended but they stopped making boxes for our trucks. Look up Redhead Steering out of Seattle. I've read very good reviews about their gears.

MountainRam · #4 10-09-2009, 03:11 PM

Thanks for the insights into this. So it seems that the 1 ton really isn't offering much and I should look for a new (rebuilt) Dodge unit or have Red head rebuild mine?

Should I also consider a steering stabilizer bracket to help protect the new box? I am wondering if it will wear out slower if the sector shaft is supported by a bearing?

Mike

dsertdog56 · #5 10-09-2009, 04:07 PM

Again, from my reading, it appears the brace works well on mostly street driven trucks.
I have read that a few owners have had binding issues (and damage!) under severe off roading use due to frame flex. It's unclear if it is a flaw depending on the brand, or that the bar by design is too rigid.
The bar itself can be modified to prevent this, yet still support the shaft.

PurplDodge · #6 10-09-2009, 05:09 PM

NAPA sells re-built 1/2 ton boxes for $150.

Ramman18 · #7 10-10-2009, 12:18 AM

^^^ yeah but you have to buy a bunch of them to get one that works. I've read too many horror stories from owners who had to keep replacing the "rebuilt" boxes before finally spending a little more on a quality one. I don't buy any parts from napa anymore.

PurplDodge · #8 10-10-2009, 12:35 AM

Like AutoZone or Advance carry any better parts. Show me links, because I want to see them.

dsertdog56 · #9 10-10-2009, 01:00 AM

The redhead box sounds like a good deal if they mod them as they claim.

Ramman18 · #10 10-10-2009, 01:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PurplDodge

Like AutoZone or Advance carry any better parts. Show me links, because I want to see them.

They don't. They are worse than Napa. Everything's chinese crap. I only purchase by brand name now, wherever I can find them. Here's the website for Redhead:

http://www.redheadsteeringgears.com/

And here's a diy:

http://dodgeforum.com/forum/dodge-cu...x-install.html