I have not read a lot of complaints on Gen 2 for frint end, other than trac bar on 4 WD. Has anyone installed this kit? Is it really needed for Gen 2's?
It seems most people have had few complaints with the steering system.

 

If you are talking about something like this http://www.solidsteel.biz/
every 2nd gen truck should have one if you plan on keeping the truck for long.
Prevents expensive problems including a cracked frame.

 

I have one of those on my truck. DANG is it beefy. I just told my friend about it who has a 01 1500 and he got SUPER excited... He has the steering wander issue.

Perhaps you just took the wander thing as "It is what it is"? You would be impressed with the outcome of installing a kit.

 

I've got one. Love it.

 

Agree with all above. The steering stabilizer is essential for 2nd Gens.
Pays for itself by protecting and extending life on poorly supported steering box, and the improved handling is noticable, even on low mileage CTD's.
Love mine....from Solid Steel.biz as well! Have heard some brands are not as stout but I would expect one from BD to be good.

RJ

 

The one from BD is $213. How much were the solid steel?
Are they very hard to install? How long did you guys take?
I beleiev 2WD should be a little easier?

 

Depends when you bgt it! In 03, when they first came out, mine was 129.00 plus shipping!
Your 2 wd Solid Steel Stabilizer is within 5 bucks of the BD. Either one should serve you well.
Under an hr to install.
RJ

 

I think PSC still sells them for the best price. It was a real easy install. I changed my sway bar bushings and end-links while I was at it. The only thing I was a little worried about was stripping the threads in the frame when you bolt in the stabilizer. I torqued it to spec but it felt like I could torque them more. Just make sure your truck is on flat ground when you do it. Or if you're parked on an incline, make sure the truck is straight cause you don't want the frame to flex, makes the install more difficult.

 

If you are just looking for the best price I got my PSC brace on EBAY about $160 to my door.

Floyd

 

Me and a buddy just put BD's on our trucks and we both can tell a difference. The steering feels more solid to me and doesn't want to wander. It's worth the investment to me.

 

How long did it take? Any problem/difficult areas to install?

 

It's very easy, another person helps but isn't essential.
Instructions here http://solidsteel.biz/install_dss.htm

 

Do both the Steering Stabilizer and Track Bar and you won't believe how tight the steering gets! Highly recommend it!

 

When I 1st went looking for a truck , one of the ones I looked at I saw that the frame was cracked badly behind the steering box , that convinced me to upgrade what ever truck I bought .

 

do these help on truck that has it already and 320k on the truck or should you get one of these after you replace the steering box to keep it from eating the new on?