I've had this truck (92 CTD 4x4 LE) for about 80,000 miles / three years and I've replaced the drag link twice and it is looking loose and sloppy again. It got greased regularly but it is still on it's way out, and it is making the LF tire wear funny and giving me vibration in the steering wheel, especially when braking.

What is up with that? Anyone else here have to replace the drag link every 20-30,000 miles?

Thanks!

 

Both the tie rod ends and the link between the steering box and upper king pin steering arm appear to be original on my truck with 235Kmi. What are you calling the drag link? Do you have a lift or big tires or other modifications from stock?

 

I'm talking about the link between the steering arm on the steering gear (pitman arm) and the steering arm on the driver's side steering knuckle. No funny mods or big tires.

 

Since you're replacing it soon, have you considered installing an aftermarket adjustable drag link? I'm wondering if its adjusting capabilities allow for better geometry between the steering arm and knuckle? I have a mild 2" lift (Skyjacker front springs) with a Superlift adjustable drag link and haven't had any problems for 2 years; I keep it well grease.

 

They should definitely last longer and without any lift kits it wouldn't be suject to any abnormal stresses that would shorten its life. What quality replacement part are you using? MOOG is supposedly the best. In fact, I have a spare DS914 that is BRAND NEW if you are interested. I bought it because someone told me I should replace it... but when I got to changing it, it was definitely NOT worn out!

 

Yes I have. But more than you. I replaced mine 6 times in 2 years. What I found that fixed mine was new front springs.I dont know why it did, but it did.My springs were so wore out that the leafs were wearing into one another.I put new springs on it from Benz springs in Portland Or. And havent replaced a drag link since then. about 3 years I think. And all the links were Moog.

 

Can you speak more of the springs you got from Benz springs... how much did they cost and what exactly did you order? I am considering replacing my springs and this may be another alternative to the Skyjacker 2.5".

Thanks,
Brian

 

I believe both pack's cost me 350.00. I went with 2 inches over stock. They already knew what the stock arch was. All they need to know is the hanger bolt size cause these trucks came with two differnt sizes. I am real happy with mine.

 

Woodrat -- it sounds to me as though you need to check out your front spring bushings (probably why the new springs fixed timb's problem) and the upper king-pin bushings and springs on your axle knuckle.

The best way to check the king-pin bushings is to take the arm off, pull the bushing out, and look at it. The spring will keep it tight enough that you can't feel any play, but may be weak enough to cause vibration, etc. with a worn bushing cup.