about 3 weeks ago i put a cardone steering gear box from advanced auto parts in my truck due to it leaking at the pitman shaft. well i noticed a leak last weekend at the bottom or the end. the large round part. it looks to have like a snap ring there. so yes this thursday taking it off, again and taking it up there, again. its not a hard thing to do but jsut a pain in the a$$.

 

might think about replacing it with a borgeson box or a redhead rebuilt box...those factory replacement boxes are just as weak as the stock ones!

 

replaced the gear box today. i sure wish i could afford a new instead of a reman. got it all together and test drove it. the steering wheel is now like zero effort to turn the wheel. i have been reading about an adjustment screw on top. will this screw tighten the wheel? its not slop or play just super easy to turn the wheel.

 

The adjusting nut will indeed increase steering effort..... trouble is, the tolerances are tighter over center, and if you adjust it to much, the truck will want to go everywhere BUT straight. Makes for a TRULY interesting driving experience...... You can try it, but, keep that little tidbit in mind.... and be CAREFUL.

 

I wonder if it is the same ratio?

 

wonder if the steering stabilizer is worn out? i would bet its the original.

 

i made a 1/4 turn adjustment. didnt really notice any difference. i did replace the steering stabilizer. have not drove yet. at the same time replaced all hoses, clamps and antifreeze/coolant.
will test later. but only thing i did notice that i thought i heard the pump work a bit harder. but times i dont hear it. took to our mechanic and he even said its to easy to steer. i will try another 1/8-1/4 turn and see if that helps and or hurts

 

My mechanic replaced the steering stabilizer in the 98 1500 4wd, made the 1/4 turn adjustment as referenced and stopped after he drove it. He cautioned me as HeyYou has here, (I was happy enough with it). K.

 

Make sure all your other steering components are up to snuff nefore Changing out a steering stabilizer, it can just mask a real problem. Which is bad

 

Thanks Ham Bone, will pass that on. K.