How To Replace Steering Linkage On '94-'02 Dodge Ram

Summary

In this video, the process of replacing worn-out steering components on a truck is demonstrated. The original steering linkage is examined, with focus on the idler arm and tie rod ends showing significant wear. Using a quality puller, the pitman arm is removed, and the truck is outfitted with new parts including the pitman arm, idler arm, and tie rod ends. Adjustment sleeves are replaced, and anti-seize is applied to prevent corrosion. The parts are assembled on a workbench for easier installation, ensuring smoother adjustments and optimal functionality before hitting the road.

Takeaways

• 😀 The steering linkage on the DU truck was original and showed signs of heavy wear from mud and rough use.
• 😀 The idler arm was the main problem with the steering linkage, but there was also some play in the tie rod ends.
• 😀 Any play in the steering linkage can negatively affect alignment, so it’s crucial to fix it before getting an alignment.
• 😀 A Matco puller was used to remove the pitman arm, with pre-load applied and light hammering to help break it free.
• 😀 Quality of borrowed pullers from a local parts store may not be ideal, so applying pre-load can help protect the tool.
• 😀 New steering parts were sourced from LMC truck, including a pitman arm, idler arm, inner and outer tie rod ends, and adjustment sleeves.
• 😀 The original center links were reused because they are solid and not a wear item.
• 😀 The original steering stabilizer was kept, as it appeared to be in good condition.
• 😀 While adjustment sleeves can sometimes be salvaged from original parts, corrosion often makes it necessary to replace them.
• 😀 Grease was applied to the threads of the new adjustment sleeves to prevent corrosion and ensure smoother adjustments.
• 😀 Parts were installed as an assembly on a benchtop to minimize adjustment time once mounted on the truck.
• 😀 Some parts came pre-painted, while others were painted manually before installation for a uniform look.

Q & A

What was the main reason for replacing the steering linkage in the truck?

The steering linkage was worn out, showing signs of rough use, including mud and crud buildup, and wear in the parts such as the idler arm and tie rod ends.

Why is it important to replace worn steering parts before performing an alignment?

Any play in the steering linkage can affect the alignment, and you can't achieve a proper alignment until the worn or damaged parts are replaced.

What tool is used to remove the pitman arm, and how is it used?

A puller from Matco is used to remove the pitman arm. It is pre-loaded slightly and then given a couple of wraps with a hammer to help break it free.

What should you do if you're using a puller from a local parts store?

If using a puller from a local parts store, which may not be of high quality, it is recommended to apply a little pre-load and hit it lightly with a hammer to avoid damaging the tool.

Where did the replacement steering parts come from?

The replacement steering parts were purchased from LMC Truck, including the pitman arm, idler arm, inner and outer tie rod ends, and adjustment sleeves.

Why are the original center links being reused?

The original center links are being reused because they are solid chunks of metal and not a wear item, meaning they do not need to be replaced.

Why was the original steering stabilizer kept?

The original steering stabilizer was kept because it appeared to be in good condition and did not require replacement.

What is the advantage of applying grease to the threads of the adjustment sleeves?

Applying grease to the threads of the adjustment sleeves helps prevent corrosion and makes adjustments smoother.

Why is it beneficial to assemble the parts on a benchtop before installing them on the truck?

Assembling the parts on a benchtop allows for easier installation as an assembly and ensures everything is properly aligned before installation on the truck.

How can you minimize the amount of adjusting needed when installing the new steering parts?

By matching the length of the tie rod assemblies to the original parts before installation, the amount of adjusting needed once the parts are installed can be minimized.