I have a 1999 diesel 2500 with 213k miles. The front end is worn. I have planned to have this kit installed since it comes with a lifetime warranty and I've had good luck with them prior.
https://www.1aauto.com/1998-99-dodge...5/1050858/1999

Question: does this kit have everything needed to replace a worn suspension and steering system?

Question: should i replace the steering box? Mechanic said it's probably worn too? (he hasn't inspected the truck yet) If so, can someone recommend a steering box?

 

The kit looks complete but I'd probably consider an upgrade to the 3rd Gen track bar

Steering box is impossible to say but likely has play....they pretty much all do even when new.

The steering box is a rabbit hole, I'd search here. Redhead is one big name but they've fallen out of favor with some forum members. Larin makes a new box - I haven't personally seen or driven one. There are other rebuilders that might be better...set aside some time and search

 

thanks Keith for the response!

 

In my opinion the most difference I saw was upgrading to a 3rd gen track bar and new adjustable control arms. They was with a pretty bad steering box. I found the control arms on ebay pretty cheap.

 

What kind of control arms are they? Are they factory control arms, after market, or from a different vehicle?

 

Aftermarket

 

Instead of 300 bucks on chinese parts, I'd spend 300 on a good 3rd gen track bar, then another 400 or so on a new box. Anything else doesn't matter that much. But before you do that,

Get under the truck and see what is really loose. Diesels are harder on ball joints but they really shouldn't wear out - mine are tight at 280k and 23 years old. Tie rods don't really wear out either, especially before track bar. The major forces are exerted on the sector shaft of the steering gear and frame joint of the track bar.

Do some google searching and you can read for years on this. Also, you get what you pay for.

 

What brand are they and where did you get them?

 

I've never seen a need for adjustable control arms on these trucks at stock height. DW (death wobble) is uncommon even with no steering stabilizer and the primary advantage of adjustable arms is to dial in more caster.

I would address everything ELSE first and get it driving like it would have off the dealer lot. Then pursue adjustable arms if you want. If you throw that in the mix now it only muddies the waters, ie you might be able to mask some wandering caused by OTHER worn components by adding a couple degrees of caster, at least for awhile.

A 3rd Gen track bar is a little different because it shouldn't change geometry, it's just a simpler, stronger, lower-maintenance replacement for the original design (who the hell uses a single shear TRE on a track bar?? Oh, Chrysler, that's right....)

Just my .02, worth exactly what you paid for it.

 

What exactly are the differences between the track bars, and is it just a bolt in replacement if you swap them, or do you have to fabricate or modify anything?