Did the steering box change in the 4wd 2nd Gens at all?

I see that O'Reilly/BBB Industries lists a 503-0146 or a 503-0128 for a '98

For a 2000 they list only the 503-0128.

However Cardone and Lares list the exact same part numbers for either '98 or '00, looking at RA

I can't find the difference between the *-0146 and *-0128. Did spline counts ever change on the input or output?

 

Further muddying the waters, if I take the part # on this sticker from a '00 of 52113502* (where * = Chrysler revisions like "AC") I come up with a 502-0129 which also appears identical.

I will say some of these list as 26 or 35 spline inputs, but I think they're the same and the machined flat makes a 35 spline actually have 26 'cause splines get physically milled off.

 

So far as I know, the only differences in the steering boxes was the steering ratio. 16:1 or so, for 1500, 18:1 or so for the 2500/3500 trucks.....

 

I didn't know about the ratio difference -- good info to have. Thanks for the reply.

 

Have the parts person bring out one of each and compare them. Bolt holes, output shaft, etc. should be the same.

 

Ok well I can confirm that a 503-0146 fits a 2000 MY even though the listings don't reflect it for this year.

I can also confirm that the previous mechanic who worked on this 2000 and managed to install the front brake pads backwards (metal backing facing rotor) also installed the drag link into the pitman arm the wrong way. It's a wonder it lasted this long without the taper fit...

Correct

Not correct!

 

So it was installed upside down or you put it there? The drag link should install on top of the pitman arm unless it has a drop pitman arm which merely reverses the taper. Also, how do you install brake pads backwards???

 

Well the 503-0146 I installed not long ago was already dumping fluid down the sector shaft onto the pitman arm.

So, out it came and back to O'Reilly it went. I have one store that tries to claim warranty abuse anytime you warranty anything but also a second store who's really cool about it.

Basically no O'Reilly carries the *0146 anymore (present retail ~$150) but they ALL carry the *0128 (present retail ~$178). I explained the situation and they just swapped me for the *0128.

Presently no leaks and it's working. The "dead zone" when driving straight is about what I've come to expect from these trucks: minimal but certainly there if you're looking for it.

As many times as I've warrantied this box over the years I almost feel bad, but don't offer a LT warranty and I won't hold you to it....

 

You buy a new pitman arm every time?

The parts stores gears are gonna be junk and a crap shoot every time. In fact, any rebuilt unit is. All "rebuilt" means is new seals and paint. But there's also crucial bearings inside and they wear out plus the entire case can stretch so having a dead spot is always gonna happen. I'm getting close to ordering a brand new Lares for mine.

 

Link to the Lares?