What a great thread this is, although it is waaay long! I just ordered my setup with the pitman arm. I did not order the stabilizer, though. I have a brand new Bilstein one that I would like to re-use. I realize the difference in the mounting system, but a guy earlier in the thread said he reused his with some eye bushings for it. I sent him a pm, but I was wondering if anyone else has done this? I looked at mine, and the stud is just inside and eyelet end anyway. Should be a simple press out affair, install some bushings, and voila, no need to buy a new $100+ stabilizer! I just need to get the right bushings. Any ideas?

 

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Mopardik:

Thanks for your nice comments about this thread. The steering problems on our Dodge CTD Trucks is probably one of the most asked questions on this website. We have alot of DTR Members (including myself) that have experienced problems with the steering on our trucks and our Members have really "steeped up" in this thread to provide ALOT of information and solutions to the problems.

On your question about the eye bushings, I can't help you there as I didn't do that on my truck, but the other Members will chime in here I am sure.

Thanks again.

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John_P

 

Thanks, John. OK, here is the info I have garnered thus far. I talked to a nice guy at Bilstein, and found out the id of the stud end eyelet on my 5100 series stabilizer is 28mm. So now all I need to know is the size of the stud on the steering kit, and I can order the bushings. Hopefully this will work out nicely, and be an option for others to not have to buy the stabilizer to make this setup work.

 

Still trying to find the size (dia.) of the stud that mounts the stabilizer to the attachment bracket. Any help appreciated.

 

trik396
The upgrade kit from Source, does this come with replacement hardware AND did you replace your pitman arm ?
Isn't that part needed with the new set up ?
Thanks

 

Just an update on this. You can install the assy. without purchasing the new damper. I pressed out the bushing and stud on mine, and installed a bushing and sleeve from energysuspensionparts.com (#99105 -$7.60), and it worked like a charm! Mine was a Bilstein damper, but it's identical to the stock one in this regard. So if yours is in good condition or an aftermarket (single), you can still use it and save about $90!

 

Would this be covered by the 7/70 powertrain warr.?

 

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quicksilvr:

Sorry for the delay in answering your question Sir.

Dodge did cover all the front end work on my truck under warranty.

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John_P

 

There have been some problems with the new steering kits. It has been reported by a few people that they have had the tie rod end bolt snap off. Dodge said they do not make the individual tie rod ends and you have to replace the whole kit again.
Jay

 

I wonder if that's only with the original upgrade the new one replaces?

 

Some TDR members have posted breakage at low speed no less with the "AE" upgrades.

 

Ae?

 

The steering linkage is not covered under the powertrain warranty.The max care service contract does.

 

Suffix of part number.The latest is up to AF IRRC

 

Wow, if the "new & improved" stuff is breaking what's the alternative? I haven't heard that but haven't been on the forums as much lately.
Hate to think we need to go to the Thuren setup that won't even work with some wheels. I don't like have to drill to put it on, no going back...