nfc90

My '92 is going to need a new steering box and drag link; the wheel is turned about 1/2 way to keep the truck straight, and makes a popping sound when I cut the wheel all the way to the left. I'll be set back about $1000 to remedy all this, but just don't have the money right now.

Can I continue to drive the truck like this, as annoying as it is, or is this something I should fix right away.

Thanks, Nick

BILTIT

I would fix the drag link right away if its in rough shape. Are you sure the steering box is bad? Have you checked the frame mounts for it, might be cracked.

jimbo486

Is this a 2wd truck? If so, for around $400 in Moog parts, you can replace all the steering components. Center/drag link, inner and outer tie rods, idler arm and adjusting sleeves.

nfc90

It is a 4WD truck.

jimbo486

Gotcha. Might be better off going with a crossover setup. Others who have done should be able to give you all the info you need about it. I do believe it can be done on trucks at stock height and/or suspension.

97catintenn

Check the steering box mounting plate, and make sure it doesn't look like mine did two weeks ago.

Crossy's son

^^ your steering box plate is probably cracked, your steering shaft is probably worn out, your drag link is probably worn out. and a new steering box won't cost near $1000 where are you getting that figure from??

Even a really really good box from redhead and a moog drag link won't cost you near a 1000

PapeCAT

uhm.... crossover? No thanks. Replace the plate? No.

Reverse rotation is the only answer. I'm VERY surprised no one whom has posted has even MENTIONED this...

https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...2-t301769.html

enafzige

I'd put crossover steering on it if it were me. Plus, then you don't need the plate if it's cracked.

And, crossover steering is DOT approved, so your safe...unlike bolting old antique '70s model parts to your nice rig!!!!














...ok, that was just a joke. Nobody get upset

--Eric

NJTman

I was wondering the same thing. It must be cause bob's the one who started that AWESOME idea. Can't think of any other reason

NJTman

Eric, you're such a hoot ! I think you're a good guy no matter what everyone here says about you....

Crossy's son

well he put the truck in the classifieds so i guess he's not going to fix it

enafzige

Lol, yeah thanks. My skin's gotten a little thicker over the years...I can take it!

Besides, we can all learn something from each other, even though we have different opinions now and then

bannerd

Why does the mounts crack and frame? Anyway to re-enforce this?

enafzige

Goodness, don't ask that...you're going to give Mr. Papecat all the more reason to promote his agenda!

The frame is poorly designed to handle the stress of the gearbox as it comes on the Dodge trucks from '79 +...or there abouts. There are several things you can do.

1. Box it in (welding). Do it yourself, or buy Jungle's stuff.
2. There was a brace that came on the RCs from the factory that help.
3. Use a reverse rotation gearbox to help transfer stresses differently to the frame.
4. Use a sector shaft brace.