considering buying used, steering question
Thread Starter
|
Registered User
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
considering buying used, steering question
I am seriously considering buying a 2006, test drove and crawled around under the car quite a bit. Noticed two things: the truck was out of alignment (pulled to the right), and there was some sludge built up on a plug on the bottom of the steering rack. The sludge was obviously power steering fluid + dirt, but wasn't anywhere except right around the plug (big hex nut underneath where the fluid lines come in. Pretty reputable dealer, truck has only 28k on it, but kind of odd they wouldn't align it before trying to sell it. Noticed that a lot of people on here have steering rack problems - do the leak and alignment problems sound bad? Plug looks like it could be easy to replace (unless you had to get the entire rack), and I'm not going to buy it unless they can get it aligned, but it seems like this could be a serious issue with this truck. Opinions greatly appreciated.
Record Breaker
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,612
Likes: 1
From: Indiana
I would clean it up and drive it again. Sometimes dirt and debris can kind of seal off current leaks. If it's a reputable dealer then they should do the alignment and take care of the power steering thing with no problems. There haven't been many, if any, power steering problems reported on here that I can remember. I'd say that's an isolated incident.
On another note, you getting the v8 or v6, 4x4 or 4x2? And if you don't mind, what are they asking for it?
On another note, you getting the v8 or v6, 4x4 or 4x2? And if you don't mind, what are they asking for it?
Record Breaker
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,513
Likes: 2
Hi. Well not ALOT of people had have problems on here with there rack and pinion. I only know of me, and maybe two other members that seem to have problems.
I am the Poster Boy for bad power steering racks on this truck unfortunately lol. I am on my third one @ 35,000 miles.
But most of the guys on here with high miles are on there original rack, with no reported issues. Who knows?
The best thing is to have a mechanic look at it before you buy it. Have the dealer look at it. If you don't trust them, call a independent mechanic, tell him the situation. Then take it over to him on an extended test drive, lol.
Each of my racks wore out on the inner tie rod end, and began to leak, which was covered and concealed by the boots.
If it seems to be out of alignment, have the ball joints checked as well before purchase, just in case.
Start by telling the dealer that you think the front end needs attention.
I am the Poster Boy for bad power steering racks on this truck unfortunately lol. I am on my third one @ 35,000 miles.
But most of the guys on here with high miles are on there original rack, with no reported issues. Who knows?
The best thing is to have a mechanic look at it before you buy it. Have the dealer look at it. If you don't trust them, call a independent mechanic, tell him the situation. Then take it over to him on an extended test drive, lol.
Each of my racks wore out on the inner tie rod end, and began to leak, which was covered and concealed by the boots.
If it seems to be out of alignment, have the ball joints checked as well before purchase, just in case.
Start by telling the dealer that you think the front end needs attention.
Last edited by MonkeyWrench4000; Apr 27, 2009 at 08:38 AM.
Guest
Posts: n/a
well, most 4x4s pull to the right a little... how bad is the pull? is it something that your fighting while driving?
and the rack issue hasn't been in any stretch an epidemic. VERY isolated. Monkeywrench is the only one I remember, but its been 3 racks now... A lot of variables, since his truck is modified also. (no, I do not think its the lift, but it COULD contribute. that's all I am saying.
)
The best thing to do is talk with the service manager before signing anything. Explain to him/her what you have seen and what you have read on the forum(s). Also look into warranty coverages. Are they going to cover it till 36k or are you getting an extended warranty for buying used? some used placed around where I am add warranty coverage for something like 30 days unlimited mileage, so its something to ask at least.
For the most part, these trucks are great. The main gripe is and has always been the front end bounce. That's not too bad considering aftermarket parts are out there to help with it, and the price doesn't break the bank.
and the rack issue hasn't been in any stretch an epidemic. VERY isolated. Monkeywrench is the only one I remember, but its been 3 racks now... A lot of variables, since his truck is modified also. (no, I do not think its the lift, but it COULD contribute. that's all I am saying.
)The best thing to do is talk with the service manager before signing anything. Explain to him/her what you have seen and what you have read on the forum(s). Also look into warranty coverages. Are they going to cover it till 36k or are you getting an extended warranty for buying used? some used placed around where I am add warranty coverage for something like 30 days unlimited mileage, so its something to ask at least.
For the most part, these trucks are great. The main gripe is and has always been the front end bounce. That's not too bad considering aftermarket parts are out there to help with it, and the price doesn't break the bank.
Record Breaker
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,612
Likes: 1
From: Indiana
Just to let you know, I saw a 2006 H.O. Quad Cab for right under $10k.