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2nd Gen Ram Tech1994-2001 Rams: This section is for TECHNICAL discussions only, that involve the 1994 through 2001 Rams. For any non-tech discussions, please direct your attention to the "General discussion/NON-tech" sub sections.
hey guys
my mother just gave me a 2000 dodge ram 1500 truck with 196k miles it runs great no issue there but Passenger rear door Driver floor board Fender needs replaced And a big dent needs popped out somehow
i do have a steering issue
when i'm driving the truck fast or slower i have to constantly move my steering wheel to try and keep it in the road i have to move it at least 2-21/2 inches either way i been looking online and not really much help there so u guys have any suggestions?
she definitely needs some love I’ll add a few pics
but more worried about the safety of the truck first
Last edited by CharlesShaheen; Sep 4, 2020 at 06:39 PM.
Reason: Added info
Check all your steering parts. With that mileage, chances are good most of them will need replaced.... Steering box is a notorious weak point as well.... Not an inexpensive fix.
If you plan on holding on to it, looks like a good time to buy a welder. What does the frame look like? As far as the steering, have someone get in the truck (engine off) and rock the steering wheel back and forth and look for play at the joint on the top of the track bar. Also check out Ram Rock Solid Steering Fix bushing. Does it shake and shimmy on the highway?
With that much rust check the frame by the steering box. There is a spot that holds water and it starts to rust there. And with almost 200K it's bound to need some front end parts.
i have to constantly move my steering wheel to try and keep it in the road i have to move it at least 2-21/2 inches either way
Sounds like your steering box may be broken off of the frame. My mothers 77 Dodge Tradesman Van had the same problem. I know that the steering box was broken from the frame because I was the one who broke it. If the steering box is broken from the frame, I'm sorry to say that it can't be fixed. I don't know how many time the steering box on my mom's van was welded back on, but it never held for long. However, I hope this isn't the issue for your truck.
If your steering box has become loose on the frame due to cancer (rust) in that area of the frame, it can typically be repaired but must be done correctly and the repair done correctly typically isn't cheap, unless you know a good welder/fabricator
steering wheel play
