I did bleed it while off. That's when it pushes fluid up. It doesn't do anything when running but that's not how the bleeding procedure should be done.

 

I've ran ATF in all Ram power steering pumps even on my 75 Power Wagon. It just seems to work better. 3rd gens and up call for it, and the 2500s use the same setup as us. Maybe it's the redhead they has air in it?

 

Well, it's either stuck in the gear or the hoses so, yeah.

 

Nah, all these systems get bled running. If the pump isn't circulating fluid it's not going to work.

This is an '08 Ram - just happens to be the 1st video I came across - but note he says the procedure is the same for nearly any p/s system. Interestingly, he says to hold it against the stops for a couple seconds but I was always taught not to do that when bleeding

 

Nooooope, the service manual clearly states to jack up the wheels and turn slowly lock to lock with engine OFF. I've confirmed this with many mechanics, sources, and internet gurus.

 

After two more bleed sessions, it actually seems better. There seems to be consistent power steering now. The pump still whines when turning and I can still hear some hissing but it's a lot better.

Now the bad news:
I took a 500 mile trip today and while the steering effort is way better, there's a big dead spot again between noon and 1. Completely wore me out sawing all over the road. But that's what this truck has done since 60k so what else is new?

I crawled under while the girl turned the wheel and low and behold. . . . . (drum roll) . . . . the only play I could see was in the Thuren track bar at the frame. I had forgotten all about that thing for years. There's a little play in the Redhead too but barely. Of course, Thuren doesn't support the 2nd gens and hasn't made anything for old Dodges in years. I emailed him but not holding my breath.

Anybody know how I can rebuild that joint? Is it just a huge heim?
It looks like this:

 

Looks like a heim joint..... Might consider doing the conversion to the third gen style of track bar. Eliminate that problem permanently.

 

What HeyYou said or rebuild it. I personally love Heim joints! Can you get better pictures of the side of the joint?

 

I figured it out and Thuren responded immediately.

It's a "uniball" joint.


And here's a good article on joints:
http://www.billavista.com/tech/Artic...nts/index.html

I ordered the bearing for $50. Should be easy.

 

Got the bushings and new uniball joint waiting for install. If it ever stops raining....ugh. But I also need to replace the crappy Moog T steering. I'm not sure if I want to get T albeit from a different brand (AC Delco) or go back to the stock Y setup. It seems the T has serious issues with rollover (joints moving before wheels do) or being too stiff (as a result of curing rollover.)

SHOULD I GET "T" kit again or go back to "Y"???