I replaced the box on my '96 in the summer of '20. The steering sector was loose. I didn't have any fluid leaks, but did have play in the steering. I replaced it with a rebuilt box that worked fine until recently. Now I have the same problem again. Would a steering brace correct the problem? I know it's probably a band aid repair, but I'm lost at what box to buy. Anyone out there with a brace and, if so, how well does it work?

 

I used a redhead brand steering box and steering box brace when I replaced the warn box on my 2001 ram 2500. A bit on the expensive side but well worth the money. After 50,000 miles I have had no issues with it and the brace was quite easy to install. Bought them together and install them together

 

Thanks.

 

Steering brace and good tight track bar ends.

The 'borgeson' (aka delphi 680; aka chevy silverado box) and the newer 6-bolt mopar box are physically bigger and provide more assist.

 

Thanks. I've talked with a couple of mechanics I know about this. They both said they see a lot of three quarter and one ton diesel 4x4's with steering box issues. They attribute it to the weight of the engine, and in some cases the oversized tires. I talked with the guy at Genos, and after reading Barrybuel's reply I looked at the redhead boxes, which look pretty good. My track bar ends are tight, all the ball joints have been replaced. I'd love to get by with only a brace, but may swap out the box since I know I already have some play in the sector. Thanks again!

 

Another place you might check for a steering box is www.bluetopsteeringgears.com. Good reviews on Mopar1973man.

 

I looked at the blue top boxes, and the box for my truck was out of stock. A lot of the Mopar boxes were. The box I have is under warranty, and the parts store will replace it. I've thought about another box from them and the brace.I'll figure it out after Christmas, I suppose.

 

You need to fix what is causing your steering gear to fail first. There are a number of components in the front end that can go bad without causing the death wobble. I was just there working on a steering wandering problem. You should inspect each component thoroughly. My steering box was still good, but I added the brace for added assurance.

 

The issue I have is play in the sector, causing the truck to wander. The ball joints, tie rod ends are new and it's on Bilstein shocks. All stock, not lifted, 215,000 miles and on new 265/75/16 10 ply Michelins. The box was replaced in the summer of '20. I replaced the other components within the last 2 months. They may have caused the box to wear prematurely.

 

Have you tried adjusting the box?

 

I don't think that will help. The play I have is in the sector and pittman arm. The box adjustment will tighten up the steering gears, but I didn't think they'd help with this issue. Am I wrong?