I have just replaced the track bar, drag link,pass side ball jointsand all tie-rod ends on my 2002 3/4 ton 4x4 CTD and after an alignment it still drives like a Radio Flyer red wagon!Is there a way to get this truck to steer and handle correctly? No death wobble yet and it feels tight at the steering wheel...just wanders around. It has about 120K miles.

 

I would hit up CowboyBob, he has been through the front end of his truck more times than I think he cares to count. I know there is a few posts dealing with them, if I find them, i will post the links.

 

Thanks. I've looked at most of the track bar upgrades but I'm not for certain that is the problem...just kinda wanders like the toe-out is too high or something along those lines.

 

how is the condition of your steering gear box. . .do you have alot of play in the wheel before the wheels start to move?

I would also check to make sure the gear box itself is tight against the frame and it doesnt move when you turn the wheel.

 

The gearbox is brand new and there is a few degrees(2 or 3) of play in the wheel. I'll check the gearbox mounting bolts again to be sure.

 

It does also pull to the right (passenger side) a bit. Before I replaced all the components and had an alignment it pulled to the left....go figure.

 

I had the wander problem and this fixed it. The wander was worse with a trailer or heavy load in the back. I didn't see the 98-02 model on the web site, but if you call I'm sure they will set you up.

http://www.pscmotorsports.com/produc...roducts_id=444

Also check you steering gear box. Just because it is new, doesn't mean it is right. I've had them last less than 10 days before. Also, check your pitman arm nut. Make sure it is on there so tight that you can't stand to turn it any more with a wrench. I had mine back out on me and that also caused the wander to come back.

The steering stabilizer (thingy that looks like a shock absorber) could also be bad. For $39 and 120K on your truck, I'd replace it too. It can be a be-ach to get out. You may have to heat it up to get it loose from the steering linkage or a couple of good whacks with a BFH should do it. If you try the BFH method, put a block of wood or something between the front axle and steering linkage so that the linkage doesn't absorb all of the energy from the hammer.

Sounds like you covered most of the other issues.

 

Thanks Bob! What should I look for in the steering box? I didn't mention that I replace the stabilizer with the other stuff but itIS new. I'll get a wrench on the Pitman arm nut this afternoon as well and give these guys at PSC a call. Have you had any experince with the track bar replacement brackets out there?