Hi everyone,

I bought a 1990 Ram W150 4x4 last week, knowing it needed a fair amount of work. Among other things, the steering is really loose, which is what Ive decided to tackle first, since its the only major 'driveability' issue.

I replaced the steering gear box, center link tie rod ends and drag link. I was able to get the pitman arm off the old gear box, so i reused it. Ive attached a pic of the work I did.

The problem is, the steering is still really loose and sloppy, the truck is still all over the road. Its at the shop getting an alignment today, which should help some, but the steering wheel will still be really loose. Im stumped here...anyone have any suggestions? I know there is a rubber coupler in the steering shaft, I might look at that next.

Ill probably have someone wiggle the wheel while I look under the car and see if i can tell anything.

 

check the coupling that connects the shaft to the steering box

I just replaced mine with a new borgensen shaft.

Drives like a new truck again.

 

mine has been sloopy and loose since day one

 

I had a similar issue with my 1990.

You had to turn the wheel back and forth constantly to just go straight.

I replaced the steering gearbox with a re-manufactured one from Lares Corp in Cambridge, MN.

Of course I also had to do both lines to the pump but hey, Minnesota salt.

After I was done the truck was solid with no slop while driving in the steering wheel.

When you replaced your gearbox was it a re-man or parts yard gearbox?

Steve

 

good idea- im going to check the coupler between the steering box and the steering column shaft.

I have an alldata subscription for the truck, but it doesnt show the right steering column parts explosion. Is there any where else in the steering column system that i should check for slop / replace?

I know there is a circular rubber link towards the fire wall, but it looks ok. Maybe if its cheap ill replace it anyways

i bought a remanufactured steering gear box from advance auto, so there shouldnt be any slop in it what so ever. the tie rod ends and drag link also came from advance, so they should all be good to go.

 

mine had the exact same problem i have a 1980 power wagon running 35s i thought it might just be the tires but its the colum that goes from your steering box up to your steering wheel. dodge did a very poor job on designing it but luckly they have made an after market one that has universals in it and a much bette set up over all i believe mine cost me about 150 or mybe 250 canadian cant really remeber but its like it now drives like abran spanky new truck. you can check it by reaching in throw the wheel well grab it and pull it back and forth should notice it right away.

 

Where did you buy the replacement steering shaft from, local parts store or internet?

 

Looks like my Jegs catalog has it. Part number 153-000940. Fits 79-93, and is $189.99

 

i bought from a local store called sportsman 4x4.

 

thanks for the reply. i was able to find this in the Jegs catalog online. im going to order one and hopefully that will fix the sloppy steering. ill let ya know!