I got all my 98-99HD parts on the way. Is there a way to add a steering dampiner to this setup? Is it needed? Please explain how and why.

Mine has a dampner. You will need a u-bolt type mount. Mine might be bent?

Why didn't go for 3rd gen upgrade ? What's the diff

Ok. I finally am getting the cash flow to fix my steering issues.

Over the weekend I did the retro fit 98-99 HD steering upgrade. All of my tie rod ends now have grease fittings and that really tightened up the steering a great deal. I still need to get the truck aligned (Wife was going to get it done for me when I was at work, but she has the flu and weather is nice so I’ve been on my motorcycle). I was also able to fit my stock steering dampener by drilling out the holes on one of the old adjusting sleeve clamps and bolting it to the new steering link.

One thing I did notice is it seems that when I turn my wheel, I see the truck flexes in the other. To fix this I have a steering stabilizer (frame stiffener) from customdiesel.com on the way. I hope this will eliminate the flex I am seeing.

I also have my upper/lower ball joints, sway bar links, sway bar bushings and upper/lower control arm bushings (all Raybestos Professional Grade) on the way as well as some Gabriel Max shocks (on special order). I have already replaced the track bar.

The reason I went with the 98-99HD vs. the 3^rd gen is I am getting mixed feedback on the 3^rd gen. Some people say it will bolt right up, others say I will need to ream out the knuckles, some say it is vehicle specific if it will fit (not year specific), some say the tie rod end bolts will rub my stock rims, some say they wont. The 98-99 retrofit has been around for some time and I now know it is a direct bolt in with the exception you got to replace the inner tie rod end with part number ES3527. Also the 3^rd gen does not have grease fittings and some 98-99HD’s do and I want to be able to add grease.

The original HD steering has a damper on it too. Here is what my daughter's '98 looks like:

How is this upgrade different from what my 2000 has on it?Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

How is this upgrade different from what my 2000 has on it? Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

This steering system has one tie rod that goes from wheel to wheel and has one link to go from the pitman arm to the tie rod. There is a lot less parts involved and a lot less chance of play contributing to death wobble.

Is the link between the pitman arm adjustable so a 1-2" lift can be done and readjust for center?I like the idea of grease zirks. Thanks Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yes, there is an adjustable sleeve just off the pitman arm but it will only center your steering wheel, not the axle. You will need an adjustable track bar to center the axle.

jyatesmpyou are correct, th 3rd gen you need to reem the knuckles out. I went witht he 98-99 HD option and ive had zero issues with it. it bolted right up and it is much stronger.

The reason I went with the 98-99HD vs. the 3^rd gen is I am getting mixed feedback on the 3^rd gen. Some people say it will bolt right up, others say I will need to ream out the knuckles, some say it is vehicle specific if it will fit (not year specific), some say the tie rod end bolts will rub my stock rims, some say they wont. The 98-99 retrofit has been around for some time and I now know it is a direct bolt in with the exception you got to replace the inner tie rod end with part number ES3527. Also the 3^rd gen does not have grease fittings and some 98-99HD’s do and I want to be able to add grease.

Did you get it as a kit? Where?

Thanks.

Here is a photo of our front ends. What is included with the HD kit?Thanks. [ATTACH]4028[/ATTACH]Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I just got HD parts from the parts store. Here is the difference http://www.mark74.com/ram_modifications.htm#crossover steering

looks nice and beefy! I might have to partake on the near future ;)