I have a 2003, RWD, 3.9, Dakota with steering issues. It has become very difficult to steer at low speed. When I turn the wheel the steering is "rough" and there is some play in the wheel. From looking through the forum archives I suspect the intermediate shaft. I'm going to try to lube the universal to see if that helps. Does anyone know where to purchase a replacement? If I understand correctly I don't think they are difficult to replace.

Thanks in advance!

Mark

 

Hi there! Sounds like the intermediate shaft. I just replaced mine yesterday in my 2003 RWD 4.7 Stampede. If you can spray the u-joints with WD40 and it cures it for a day or so, you know it's the intermediate shaft. Got mine from ebay for $99 shipped and it was a genuine Mopar part (part #55351244AA). The new one is redesigned and has beefier u-joints. Just turn your steering wheel to where you can reach the upper and lower bolts and lock it. Completely remove the bolts and the shaft will slide right off. The shaft even telescopes to make removal and installation easier. It's not hard to get off because it doesn't actually clamp on there. The bolts go through a detent that holds the shaft in place. Took me 15 minutes with one 13mm wrench and one 13mm deep socket ratchet. Now my slow speed steering issues are gone. Steers like butta!

 

99 percent prob that^ if not .. Are you getting any whine when you turn?

 

I just had my intermediate shaft and universals replaced. I went to the dealer as I am getting too old to do that work anymore........WOW what a difference in the action of the front end, clunking is gone as well. I was able to determine the shaft was bad by reaching my arm over top of the left front wheel and grasp the universal and feel how bad it was, and a real hazard as well. I paid $94 for the shaft and about $125 for labor, better than replacing the rack and pinion. the truck was wondering when the steering wheel was straight.........lucky