See my previous post.

 

lol I didn't mean to do a double post. My phone didn't show it posted so I canceled the post but it must have went through so I just edited it after I read yours.

 

Gotta love technology. Or not.......

 

It has it's ups and downs but more ups!

 

Packy, the only thing I'll add is related to the steering box adjustment - please do not crank down on the allen-headed adjustment bolt - turn it in lightly, just enough to feel resistance, then tighten the locknut, while holding the allen headed nut in place - then, push back and forth on the steering box output shaft (shaft the pitman arm attaches to) - if you feel no movement in the steering box output shaft, you are adjusted properly.

 

Just to add to this, make sure the box (and steering wheel, obviously) is as dead center as you can get it when adjusting, as this is the point when there is the least backlash between the two meshing gears. When I readjusted mine outside of the truck, i set it such that there was slight resistance at the center of travel and no backlash. However, when you would rotate it past the center of travel to either side, it would loosen up and some backlash would be evident (which I believe is normal). I think the manual has a snippet or two regarding this (don't have it on me atm).

 

Well last night we took the seals out and I have never messed with a gearbox before but I believe there is a piece missing between the seals and the shaft where the pitman arm attaches. So I said screw it and ordered a new one and it should be here today and I should have the new one on by tonight and I'll update ya how it goes.

 

New gearbox or seal kit? If I recall correctly, all the seal kit consists of it the seal and washer. I think the snap ring is reused..

 

There were two seal kits at AutoZone. One had more seals than the other. But I ended up just replacing the whole gearbox today and now she is all ready to go back on the road

 

My 2001 Ram 2500 has had (4)Gear boxes and (5)Power Steering pumps replaced since I purchased it new. Now I'm having issues again with very hard steering with this dam cold weather. Problems are related to Rebuild parts (JUNK) NAPA and Auto Part Stores. Can't buy OEM any more.