JUst wondering if there is a way to tighten up the steering in the Dakota. In other words, make it so the truck reacts faster when I turn the wheel. Maybe it is because I got used to driving a different truck for work on the job site, but going back to the Dakota, the steering feels loose. Anyone else experience this? Or modify their truck to handle differently?

 

You might want to check your ball joints and tie rods to make sure they have no play, and if they do replace them. Also, keep your tie rods and ball joints greased (I grease mine every time I change the oil). If those parts look good, its just how these trucks handle.

 

Yes double and triple check every steering and suspension part. A damaged part can cause this. Even check the steering shaft. If all checks out okay, then there is an adjustment on the steering box. This adjustment screw will tighten up the steering. Check the FAQ for service manuals to find out exactly how to adjust it properly.

 

I just went through this on my '96. If the truck feels like it's wandering while the steering wheel is straight, the most likely culprit is the pittman arm. Greasing at oil change is key. I do the same thing. I don't suggest doing adjustments on the steeing box. It doesn't seem to respond as well as you would like.

 

thats a great tip on greasing with oil changes. my poor truck was really really in need of grease when i got it

 

this thred make me happy that i have rack and pinion steering . mine is very responsive, i have put down better times at the autocross than my buddy in his 99 trans-am several times!

 

Lol, to each his own... I'd take 4x4 and "loose" steering over 2wd any day of the week. Thats really impressive about the autocross though!

 

thanks, i have my little suzuki samurai for off roading, so the dakota just tears up the streets

 

That sounds fun, my friend also got some Samurai & he takes the high slopes on weekends.

 

The pitman arm, that's what my wondering problem turned out to be.

Grease the fittings every oil change is great....if only I did regular oil changes.
If they could put you in jail for truck abuse, they'd lock me up and throw away the key. I have an automatic oil change system. You know the one....as its loses oil you just keep adding fresh oil and ultimately you change the oil...