1999-2001 Dodge Ram 1500 Steering Wander: A Guide to the Steering Gear Box

Is It a Rack and Pinion or a Steering Gear Box?

First, let's clear up a common point of confusion. The 1999-2001 Dodge Ram 1500 does not use a rack and pinion steering system. It is equipped with a traditional recirculating ball steering gear box. While some parts sellers may incorrectly label it as a 'rack and pinion', they are mechanically different. A steering gear box is a heavier-duty design typically used on trucks and body-on-frame vehicles, while a rack and pinion is lighter and more common on modern passenger cars. Ordering a 'rack and pinion' for this truck will result in receiving the incorrect part.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

Steering wander is a well-documented issue on these trucks. Owners often describe a feeling of 'sloppy' or loose steering, requiring constant small corrections to keep the truck driving in a straight line. This is frequently caused by internal wear within the steering gear box.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

Dodge released several TSBs related to steering problems on these models:

• TSB 19-002-01 REV. A: This bulletin provides a detailed diagnostic procedure for 'Steering Sensitivity/Wander'. It acknowledges that slight steering corrections may be necessary to keep the vehicle straight and outlines steps to check alignment, suspension components, and tire pressures before condemning the steering gear.
• TSB #0053 (for 2001 models): Addresses 'sensitive steering and... a steering wander condition' specifically on long wheelbase trucks.
• TSB #190499 (for 1999 models): Notes customer complaints that the 'steering system feels heavy or the steering wheel is not centered'.
• TSB #190399 (for 1999 models): Mentions 'conditions with steering slow to return to center'.

Recalls

There are no recalls specifically for the steering gear box on the 1999-2001 Ram 1500. However, two related recalls are worth noting:

• NHTSA #01V-153: Affects the clockspring inside the steering wheel. Sound-deadening material can dislodge and damage the clockspring, disabling the driver's airbag and illuminating the airbag warning light.
• NHTSA #00V307: On certain Quad Cab models, upper control arm bolts could fail, potentially allowing the axle to rotate and twist the steering linkage.

Symptoms of a Failing Steering Gear Box

A worn steering gear box will present several distinct symptoms. Here’s what to look and listen for:

• Excessive Steering Play or 'Wander': This is the most common complaint. You'll notice a large dead spot in the center of the steering, requiring you to constantly move the wheel back and forth to keep the truck straight on the highway.
• Popping or Grinding Noises: You may hear grinding, popping, or thumping sounds when turning the wheel, especially at low speeds or when stationary. Some owners report a 'honking' noise while turning.
• Binding or Uneven Steering Effort: The steering may feel smooth in some spots and then suddenly become hard to turn, or vice-versa. This indicates internal wear on the worm and sector gears.
• Fluid Leaks: Power steering fluid (which is ATF+4 on these trucks) may leak from the input shaft seal (where the steering column connects) or the output/sector shaft seal (where the Pitman arm attaches).
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: While often an alignment issue, severe internal wear or binding in the steering gear can also cause the truck to pull.

How to Diagnose a Worn Steering Gear Box

You can check for play in the steering gear with a helper. This test separates play in the gearbox from wear in other steering components.

1. With the engine off and the truck on the ground, have a helper sit in the driver's seat.
2. Get under the front of the truck and safely observe the steering gear box. You need a clear view of the input shaft (coming from the steering column) and the Pitman arm (the large arm on the bottom).
3. Instruct your helper to slowly rock the steering wheel back and forth, just enough to take up the slack.
4. Watch the input shaft and the Pitman arm. If you see the input shaft rotating back and forth without the Pitman arm moving, there is excessive play inside the steering gear box. The Pitman arm should move almost instantly with the input shaft.
5. Also, try to wiggle the sector shaft where the Pitman arm attaches. There should be no side-to-side movement, only rotational movement.

Buying a Used Steering Gear Box: What to Look For

A quality used OEM steering gear can be a reliable and cost-effective solution, especially since new OEM units are discontinued and many aftermarket remanufactured boxes have a poor reputation. Here’s how to inspect a used part:

• Check for Leaks: Thoroughly inspect the areas around the input and output (sector) shaft seals. Look for signs of fresh fluid or areas that have been washed clean by a leak. Pay close attention to the bottom seal where the Pitman arm connects, as this is a common failure point.
• Perform a Play Test: Even off the vehicle, you can check for major internal wear. Grip the splined input shaft with a pair of pliers or vice grips and try to turn it. You should feel immediate resistance and see the output sector shaft begin to rotate. If there's a noticeable 'dead spot' before the output moves, the unit has excessive internal play.
• Inspect the Mounting Points: There are three mounting holes that bolt through the frame. Ensure these are not cracked, broken, or excessively corroded.
• Verify Part Numbers: If possible, match the OEM part number to the ones listed (52113556AA, AB, AC, AE). This helps confirm you have the correct part for your Regular Cab truck.
• Ask About Mileage: While not always available, a steering gear from a lower-mileage vehicle is always preferable. High-mileage units are more likely to have internal wear.

Replacement Overview

Replacing the steering gear box is a moderately difficult job for a DIY mechanic.

• Difficulty: 4 out of 5.
• Special Tools: A Pitman arm puller is essential. You will not be able to remove the Pitman arm from the old gear box without it.
• Key Steps: The process involves securing the steering wheel to prevent clockspring damage, draining the power steering fluid, disconnecting the high and low-pressure fluid lines, removing the Pitman arm nut and using a puller to separate the arm, unbolting the steering shaft, and finally unbolting the heavy gear box from the frame.
• Flushing and Bleeding: It is critical to flush the power steering system to remove any metal debris from the old, failing gear. After installation, the system must be properly bled of all air. This is typically done by jacking the front wheels off the ground and turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock multiple times with the engine off, then repeating with the engine on, while keeping the fluid reservoir full. Air in the system will cause a whining power steering pump and erratic steering assist.

Cost Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)