Got the truck inspected yesterday, had to put a new steering box on to pass. Lame.

 

Standard dodge problem.......

 

Yup. It was a big leaker.

The shop owner said the box was wore out and I yup, it's a 2nd Generation Dodge Ram, power steering box is wore out from the factory!

That got some laughs.

 

Have you got an outboard bearing/stearing box brace?

 

215,xxx

 

Negative, everything is completely stock, and I'm sure the new box is a standard parts store rebuilt POS.....

 

Changed out original valve cover gaskets last fall with new felpro. Cut oil consumption by half between changes at 4000mi intervals. Used to add a quart by 1500 miles. Replaced plenum plate with aluminum a couple years back, but was still using more oil than seemed right. Just thought I'd let you all know. Also just did all ball joints. Why do they rivet them to the control arms? What a pain!

 

Good to know about the valve cover gaskets. Mine have been leaking for years. I use 1-2 quarts each oil change. It's pretty wet around the block.

 

But the oil on the engine block keeps it from rusting! ;-)

 

And the power steering pump leak keeps my frame good, too