1997 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4

After searching the forum to no avail, I am asking for guidance from some experienced DIYers. My son was in an accident that broke the adjustment sleeve on the drag link. The link itself is fine, it's just the sleeve that broke in the middle of the space where the 2 ends of the drag link do not meet. I have the new sleeve but need a little advice on the best (and easiest) method to install it. Also, any info on special tools and how to use them would be very helpful. I have "worked" on my own cars for most of my life, but I have never had to perform this particular repair. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance for sharing your expertise!

There IS a special nifty tool for this exercise, but, at home, I usually just use a pipe wrench.

Welcome to DF.

 

Remove the lock bolts on the broken sleeve, spread the 'ears' a bit, and simply unthread them. A little bit of penetrating oil never hurts either....

To install the new one, get it started a bit (1/4" max) on one side, then get the other side started, adjust it so the steering wheel is centered, when the wheels are fairly straight. Put the locking bolts in, and torque 'em down fairly tight. Shouldn't take more than 20 minutes or so.

 

Thank you! Sounds simple enough. Just wasn't sure if there was a "trick" to doing it correctly or if it was straight forward. So few jobs are simple anymore. Thanks again!

 

Well... this IS one of the VERY few....

 

And then have front end aligned.....