The steering on my truck is loose. I know that this is a very common problem and we don’t know what to try first. Our friend is a dodge mechanic and he told us to replace the u-joints, but when we took a look under it today, we found out that the steering box is leaking and should probably be replaced. Could the U-joints be good and the steering box is what’s causing it? Or just to be safe replace both? Thanks.


Mitch

 

Grab a friend. Unlock steering, but, do not start engine. Have friend GENTLY rock the steering back and forth. Have a look at what is moving, if it shouldn't be moving, replace it. (applies to balljoints, tierod ends, etc.) If you get a fair bit of movement of the steering wheel, and little or no movement of the pitman arm, replace the steering box. (don't bother with a stock replacement, fix it the FIRST time, and get a redhead, or borgeson box. If you just get a stock replacement, you WILL be disappointed.)

Next, watch the ends of the track bar, while your friend CRANKS the steering back and forth. NEITHER end should move. If either end does, replace it.

Also check joints in intermediate shaft for play, and the rag joint. (if there is one.)

 

we tried the rocking the steering wheel and there was little movement to the pitman arm. do you recommend fenco boxes?

 

No. Redhead, or Borgeson. Everything else is just a remanufactured stock box, with all the same issues. Those two are NEW boxes.

 

Movement indicates wear. Was there also any movement at the tie rods and ball joints> These can contribute to slop as well.

 

mostlikely the steering box

 

Actually the redhead is also a rebuilt, only difference is they use all new parts and do it right. If money is an issue Fenco is one I had good luck with in my 98. Stay away from A1-Cardone.

 

alright thanks

 

Turns out that joints are good and that its the steering box that is causing it to be loose. a fenco box is on its way