I hope I can get some help from other 2nd gen owners who have a ranch hand bumper. I had slow speed impact that bend the bumper, cracked the headlight housing and put a very minor distortion in the fender. I had been wanting the reanch hand for a while anyhow. I'd like to know the distance between mounting brackets, outside to outside, for the Ranch bumper to be certain I have not also tweaked the frame. Dodge says they can't tell me, Ranch folks say they won't tell me so I decided to ask ya'll.
Even if you have stock bumper I just need to know distance between front of frame before I order a pricey item that I won't be able to afford to return, thanks in advance.
to anyone who has time to measure their frame.

 

This link may be of some help......Ben

 

Alignment should not change, only the steering wheel position might change.
But I'd suggest getting the right springs for the increased weight in the front. (maybe your stock springs are not at their best after 18 years)

Nevertheless it's always a good idea to check all the front end components and fix all the issues on these trucks.

 

Thanks Ben, I found that drawing before I posted, it shows rear frame dimentions but not the front. Ive been carrying a tape in case I spot one parked to measure it but have been striking out.

 

Thanks Alpine, it's got some age on it for sure but almost no miles nearing 50K. I'll probably have an alignment just for good measure.

 

The problem with 2nd gen truck is they were really good, but the weight of the diesel and the use and abuse were showing first on the front end.
Do not only check alignment- check every component for wear and play before checking alignment.

Calculate the front end load with your bumper, winch, plow whatever- and get the right springs for it. Stock diesel springs were a tad soft about 20 years ago- and they did not get stiffer over time.

The shock follows the spring. (in calculation) - so get shocks that fit load and spring for what you do.

You can get the old buggers to handle on par with the new ones like that.

 

I could use some help knowing distance between outside front frame rails. can't seem to find one parked to measure. Could someone measure theirs? thanks

 

I measured 35 15/16”. Picture shown is measuring outside to outside of bracket on a recently installed legend on an ‘01. Bracket slides inside frame.
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