For cool shirts, sweatshirts, and more check out the Just Diesels merch store: just-diesels.com What I used: www.cjcoffroad.com/products/ultimate-3rd-gen-steering-package?_pos=1&_sid=b3332460c&_ss=r How to diagnose your steering video: czcams.com/video/9NcLGLnXoDI/video.html Fox ATS stabilizer video: czcams.com/video/npFSaH_dGgQ/video.html Carli ball joint review video: czcams.com/video/9kkVU2lGr2I/video.html
I just rebuilt my entire front end on a 2004 2500 using CJC. I used mopar T steering upgrade, Carli track bar, Carli control arms thuren 2” coils and tuned fox shocks, fox steering stabilizer, EMF ball joints, new borgeson steering box and shaft. Truck is decent in the twisties, but I’m sawing back and forth on the freeway. I’ve been to multiple alignments in the 350 miles the truck has been built. All say I’m good. The third shop though, who I researched and found with hundreds of 5-star yelp reviews, said something and it has me wondering. They said that new ball joints can be stiff and keep the wheels from wanting to self center. This causes me to constantly correct and feels like the front end is wandering. It’s not fun to drive on the freeway. I’m at a loss about what to look at next…the rear leaf bushings are good too. Tomorrow I plan to pull the zerks on the ball joints to see if I applied too much grease. I followed the EMF instructions though, and the knuckle turned freely…
@@jeremyhowell2332 What’s your tire and rim setup, size, pressures, etc? Are all four tires the same? Are your tire’s directional? What speed are you noticed the wandering, including road condition (concrete or asphalt) and is it wandering one or both directions? Does it wander under breaking vs acceleration or coasting? 07:00ish he talks about pre loading… Make sure every component is installed correctly, torqued and used plenty of grease (jd corn head AN102562), crack open the box if need be. Maybe the "thrust line" and centerline are too far apart?… especially with a solid rear axle with leafs given all you’ve done to the front. *Worst case after double, triple checking everything including ailment is to identify your frame is squared away, literally. I know the feeling, it’s like the truck isn’t connected to the tire’s or the road, like driving 65-70 on glass. There’s quite a few options, including factory warranties on your new part’s. Sometimes you have to adjust all parts so it all works together perfectly. Or sometimes it’s just a track bar issue… best of luck and I suspect the front end complexity doesn’t match up with the rear setup.
@@2K9s thanks for taking the time to reply. I adjusted the Carli track bar to the exact center to center measurement Carli and CJC off-road recommended. The tire/wheel setup is all brand new as well. They are 18” Methods and 35x12.50 Nitto ridge grapplers. As far as the frame, it’s factory mint. No rust, no dents, immaculate, zero accidents. The steering box manufacturer (borgeson) suggests I recheck to make sure the box is centered in it’s travel. I’m doing that this evening.
I've been slowly collecting carli parts on my truck as I build it. This video is basically my finished shopping list. 😅 great video! You explained things in a way anyone (most anyone) can understand but still gave the important info and the "why" to the "what" on the parts. Amazing man. If your ever in Wyoming let me know! Would love to drool over another properly built third gen!
Andrew's 3rd gen builds are so nice that I look at mine and feel like I'm just burning cash lol I just bought the Carli Pintop 2.5 kit from CJC along with Carli full progressive leaf springs, Mopar HD steering upgrade, and Thuren active rate sway bar (probably forgetting other stuff too). Hoping this will help me sort out my steering and suspension issues but it's going to take me another 6 months to save up for those Carli ball joints. Think I should take care of my rusty cab corners first though...
My Carly ball joints were on back order from CjC for over 2 months. Canceled them an went with EMF’s an cjc got them to me in 2 days. Got $300 dollars back an they are amazing
I love this build! I had CJC send Carli 3.0, high clearance arms, extreme ball joints, torsion sway bar,Mopar tie rod, Thuren track bar, progressive springs F/R. Lowered the front and back 1" on 35s. I know why the front carpet had 50 cups of coffee dried into it:) The stock sus had me listing and ready to sell my 08. Fortunately I kept it. The truck is a beast now on those wash boards and 1-6" rock section roads. Cody and Cole were so patient with all my questions and when people ask how much I still say it was the best investment I made on the rig.
Really enjoyed your explanation on stabilizers. I mess with jeeps and have chased death wabble before. Everybody just says replace your stabilizer. That just masks the real problem. It is usually worn out parts and/or a bad alignment. I ended up replacing my worn out front control arms when I did a lift and I haven't had a problem since. I ran without a stabilizer for probably a year with no problems. Ended up putting one on when I finally got bigger tires just to dampin feedback from hitting potholes and rocks. Good quality suspension components go a long way.
I have a 3rd gen (08) 2500 diesel. I did the Carli 2.5 front springs, control arms, and track bar.. all VERY nice stuff. The other upgrade that I did that made a HUGE difference, was the steering box. Going from the "4 bolt" sector shaft box to the 4th gen style "6 bolt" sector shaft box. It went from driving like an old Ford Pinto, to driving like a modern Corvette (in comparison of course). With the old steering, I always felt like I was up on the wheel constantly doing small corrections to keep it in the lanes. With the new, I can drive with one hand on the wheel and relax a bit..
Ended up putting dyna track ball joints in 15 years ago. I put track bar bushings in last year. Just finished putting in 09 plus linkage and a 6 bolt redhead upgrade. I will have to look into Carli track bar in a few years when bushings start to get wear.
Andrew- hands frickin down THE BEST Ram steering video ever. So many answers were delivered in this video. One little nugget: Toyo's wandering to the right? Dude, now I am not questioning my sanity on that issue any more after brand new shoes hahaha. Big Carli fan, did the leveling springs shocks etc on a new '23 3500 single tire with the Carli track bar and man am I glad we did that. Had to do an emergency 40 MPH hard right full brake lock into the boonies to avoid a catastrophic rear ender and it bent every thing BUT the Carli track bar. Drag link looked like a smile emogi. Your knowledge, prod quality, VO, cadence etc etc top notch man. Sub'ed of course.
Ideally you should look for a truck that was owned by an older man with low mileage who never towed. I repeat never ever buy a truck from a young kid that does questionable stupid mods. And never buy a truck from a Mexican , their goal is to screw you over with sub par trucks and then disappear off the face of the earth
Nice choice in parts. I may swap my synergy trackbar to a Carli when the bushings wear our. Those design considerations were not considered when I was just trying to deal with death wobble on a tight time frame. I am running Carli ball joints, Synergy steering/trackbar, with PSC big bore box with ram assist. The steering is not the quickest with the ram assist but it holds the wheels in position no matter what I run over.
Just to push the point home, my 2007 Wrangler on 37s ran 5 years without a steering stabilizer. I would even hit corners hard and drive 80mph. Once it got hit while parked, I had to add one since the insurance company refused to fix the frame. Never the same. But 75k miles without a stabilizer. Alignments, maintenance and care are all I needed!
You’re 100% correct. I don’t have a steering stabilizer on my 03 2500. I found it’s mostly in the steering box? Keep the steering box adjusted? However when you have loose Tie rods and ball joints or bad track bar. It will start the process of the steering box constantly changing directions.
Hey man love the videos. Always has great info for guys that want to build a 3rd gen property. I recently ordered carli performance 2.0 kit for my 05 powerwagon. And wasn't away of the 08+ t style steering. Looks like I gotta get that too.
Man I love my 2005 Cummins Quad Cab 4x4. I have the full Carli 3” Dominator. I went with King Shocks though. I did the full rear leaf option w/ the air bags. Steering Stabilizer and the high clearance extended control arms. I also got the Mercenary front and back bumper. I got the back bumper on but having trouble with the front bumper.
I know its anecdotal but I've had a full MOOG tie-rod drag-link setup on my truck with no issues for the last 60k miles. Northeast winters and some beat downs in the dunes.
Nice build man. Looks great and I bet it drives even better. Currently going through the rigamarole to improve the steering on my 3rd gen. Your videos definitely help!
Your 3rd Gen build gives me inspiration and hope for my own 3rd Gen! Right now I’m battling steering issues. Before you started your channel I bought a PSC mopar big box with hydro assist ram. I haven’t installed it yet because life got in the way. This video has me wondering if it will be the solution I’m after as I doubt the powered hydraulic Ram will provide positive pressure in both directions like you described. It will resist movement in both directions but i don’t think it will provide steering bias pressure to correct for tire pull.
The Hydro assist has a very specific purpose though in that it relieves pressure from the box when it comes to muscling around big tires at low speeds. I personally would only run that on an off road toy though as I’m not fond of the highway feel with hydro. It’s a personal preference, but I think it’s a bit too twitchy. Other people swear by it!
I am contemplating on selling my 3rd gen 5.9 with 148k so I can get a 4th gen. But Andrews 3rd gen builds look soo damn clean that I Reel myself back in and decide on keeping my 3rd gen. 😂 I love your videos Andrew!
Can I get a full list of everything you installed. I just upgraded my entire braking system. Now I'm going to do the full front end. This is awesome man. . Buddy of mine sent me a link to this video. As in terms of what to do next I would focus on the suspension and brakes before you do any power adders. Love the video man
Click that link in the top pinned comment! It’s got everything you need in one kit! Mopar steering, Carli ball joints, Carli track bar, and Carli high/low stabilizers!
I liked the video.... wish I knew several years ago.. my 08 2500 6.7l needed a bunch of stuff so I got new 20 in rims, 35 in tires, 1 in level kit, new shocks and replaced the front end. I made the mistake of trying to budget kit it and bought most through rough country. After installing anything I can't understand how they haven't killed someone yet but now I'm stuck with it until I can slowly purchase everything to fix it right. I agree about moog, I've always got there products and loved it until this truck... they don't hold up at all.
I went with Synergy steering on my 2012 only because after about a decade in the Midwest no amount of heat and penetrating oil was gonna get my factory tie rod adjustment loose! Good excuse to buy some parts.
I not a expert just here to learn . Interesting that you can load the steering to pull one way or the other with the steering stabilize. A long time ago when I worked for gm I aligned a few car ect . I was told to add a bit more positive caster to the right wheel to make the vehicle pull to the crown of the road . I know some liked to use camber but I wanted to make the tires wear flat as possible. So I was wondering if thar could be done with adjustable ball joints on a dodge since it's a solid axle ..I trying to up grade my old second gen especially the front steering thanks for the video
The pull to the right is exacerbated with positive scrub radius. Stock these trucks have a slight negative scrub radius. I kept the stock rims and went to 35” so I don’t have the “steering wonder”.
Next question is what clutch are you going to upgrade to and what fluid to calm down all the racket the trans will make with the conversion from the dmf?
I have been fighting my 3rd gen front end for a while now...I have changed everything! Synergy ball joints, one piece draglink ( with heim joints on every corner, even track bar) redhead steering box, borgeson steering shaft. It still wonders all over the road. Kinda scary to drive, it has a 4" lift with 37x12.50x18 Method nv315 on it. If you have any input on how to stop the wondering please help! Thanks man love the channel!
I really enjoy your videos. Great the way you explain things. why didn't you go with the Carli or Thuren Sway Bar and Links? I was planning to replace my OEM with Carli or Thuren on my 08 3500 Mega Cab on 35s. Have you ever run either kit? Thoughts?
That’s because I went with a full Carli sway bar when I did the Dominator system! czcams.com/video/IfaBgmNtKNA/video.html When it comes to sway bars, both Carli and Thuren will dramatically improve ride, and I can’t say you’ll notice a difference behind the wheel. The Carli sway bar does offer better build quality, better frame brackets, better joints and better end links, so I chose that route. Thuren is a great bang for the buck though if you want the solid ride improvement for the least amount of money.
Andrew, would you comment on the differences/ use case between hydro assist and your dampner set up? I just put 37's on my 3rd gen. Thuren control arms, track bar and 2" prog springs up front and shackles in the rear. I plan on continuing to build and replace old parts to new or improved parts. Im ready to do my steering box and linkage. Im contemplating the apex and hydro assist. The reason is that with the 37's I feel hydro assist may help save parts and make stering these large tread patches easier. Also feel like it will help in wonder that the dampener set up also accomplishes. Thoughts, advise? Thanks
I just sold my 2020 HO 6.7 and bought an 06 5.9 mega cab manual with 98k miles. It has a 4" fabtech lift with Fox shocks. I want to take it down to stock in the rear and 2-2.5' level kit in front, running 35's, while fixing any 06 issues. What is your recommendation for a parts list? It's for practical use in NW Montana but I'd like some longevity and versatility out of it. Thanks
I would greatly appreciate ya’lls advice. I have an 06 2500 diesel with thuren sway bar, track bar, hxd t-style steering, 6” soft ride coil springs. What’s next?
I have a 1994 ram Second Gen, What set up is best for a stable steering system. Have replaced the Track bar, still alot of play. All ball joints have been replace. Also have the cross bar to hold the shaft on the steering box. I have been told to change to the new style of track bar, with bracked change?? Bob.
Great video. Did you also look at the Synergy linkage as well as the MOPAR system? Just wondering what drove the choice to MOPAR? I have a 2005 Ram 3500 5.9l and am looking to do a number of upgrades before next Summer. Only at 118,000 miles, so figure I have lots of miles left in it. Thank you.
@@JustDiesels Thanks. I am really enjoying all the videos! To clarify, I am using the truck mainly for personal use, towing a horse trailer. Might do some very mild off-roading, only enough to reach some good fly fishing spots! The APEX is quite a bit pricier, especially in Canadian dollars. Is the MOPAR kit a "good" upgrade?
I had this job done by a shop and they used all moog stuff before we went to Baja for a month last winter. It all failed. 05 dodge 2500 hd 4x cummins. Should the toe in be 1/8th?
What pressures are you running in your upper and lower steering stabilizers? I’m going to install mine this weekend and am trying to get an idea of if I am going to need to adjust them. Thanks for the info.
40-70 is neutral. I recommend starting from there, and then adding additional pressure to one or the other if needed to correct for a tire pull. You can experiment with it though if you have easy access to dry nitrogen!
It has a different purpose. Hydro is great for pushing big tires around at low speed where tons of force is necessary so that the box isn’t doing the work. It does make for a twitchy highway driving experience though, so I’ll never do it on any of my trucks as they aren’t dedicated off road rigs. The Carli High low is a better do it all stabilizer setup for people driving their trucks like normal trucks!
@@JustDiesels got it, thanks for sharing your opinion. My stock gearbox is worn out and needs replacing, and the PSC gearbox and Ram only cost $275 more than the Carli High/Low kit, so that’s what I’m deciding between.
Are the 5th gen 3500s built way different than this ? The reason I ask is although my truck is new, I’m new to the smaller HD stuff. I’ve only had 5500s or bigger the last 10 years
I need help. I have a 2006 5.9 4x4 160000 miles. The second set of tires 97000 to 150000 wore hard on the outer edge on the fronts...positive camber? Before my new set of tires I got it aligned. He said everything was tight but no way to adjust camber on my truck. Any way to get this fixed?
I’m going to look at a 09 2500 tomorrow again but the steering wheel has 2-3 inches of play that I’m worried about. I wonder if what your showing us will fix that
I need to go your alignment guy . I have nearly everything you have less the dual stabilizer I have a single with Kore unlimited setup my truck has 130,xxx miles & been thru 4 alignment shops & my truck still has abnormal steering with every front end part upgraded . Carli ball joint top/bottom Bd track bar Upgraded Chrysler steering rack Fox true steering damper New 37’s Yet still can’t seem to get the setup solid and like it was when new stock . Even had fox shocks rebuilt which didn’t need it as the tech stated oil was still great had new nitrogen also . The tech asked if the shocks had been off-roading or just a ball crawler as they didn’t need to be serviced .
I’d start with ripping off that BD track bar. They make a ton of great stuff but their track bar is not up to par. Tell your alignment guy to do 1/16” of toe angle, and then 3-4 degrees of caster. Should help!
If you don’t mind. What wheel size/offset Tire size you have? I have a 2005 Dodge 2500 Quad Cab 4x4 Cummins. I don’t won’t my wheels sticking 10’ out from my truck.
I did look at the carli track bar for my truck, 05 f350, but unfortunatly it will not work in a stock height application. in this case ill most likely run all synergy steering components.
I have a 2nd gen Ram that I rebuilt the front end on, but the steering is still loose. I am going to put a steering box in it, but I am debating between a Redhead and a Bluetop. Was wondering if you had experience with either of these, or if you had any other recommendations.
Put a big third gen box in. PSC used to sell a kit that was a new box, the spacers needed to clear the 2nd gen frame, and new longer bolts, and a new pitman arm. The difference in size on the sector shaft / bearing is crazy and it completely changed the feel and power of my steering. Those redhead / Bluetop boxes are just expensive remans for a steering box that was undersized for a second gen diesel from the get go.
Hey man I love the truck! I have an 08 ram quad cab short bed with 49k miles. I was curious your fuel mileage before and after your mods! Any response is appreciated! Keep it up!!
I’ll find out, but I expect highway mileage to improve significantly with the 37s and tuning since I was winding the truck out so badly before. With the stock wheels and tires it was doing almost 2500 RPM at 70!
I’m still kinda new to my truck and this type of suspension so forgive the ignorance but I have a 2006 1500 mega cab which shares the same suspension as the 2500 diesels correct? If so would this work for my truck too?
is there a similar review of the 2013 (3500's) ? 4th Gen? I recognize the same issues shown in this video in my 2013, my suspension shop says I have the Y-suspension, but still seems to have an un-adjustable alignment (caster?), unless offset adjustable ball joints are added.
A 13 3500 is actually the same as all the 14+ trucks. You have a MUCH better steering setup! All the same info applies with the exception of the linkage itself. If you need a replacement, do the 19+ OEM parts. There’s also a new brand called Apex that is making steering for these trucks. Curious to see how their stuff compares!
These trucks do not have adjustable camber which is likely what you’re referring to. Never ever do offset balljoints! Do you know what your camber spec is? These trucks come from the factory with some positive camber, but negative means your axle housing is bent!
Just factory! Going to upgrade to these soon: www.cjcoffroad.com/collections/ram-lighting-kits/products/cjc-off-road-2003-2009-dodge-ram-fog-light-led-brackets
@@JustDiesels Sweet, if you trust them then I do. I don't know what is different about the 2000-2002 trucks but Dynatrac doesn't appear to make anything for those years either.
I have a question for you. I just upgraded my steering box to the Ram big bore box that you have. This unit brand new out of the box has about 1/4-1/2” of play in it. Did you notice anything like that in your unit? I’m pretty frustrated with what I’m seeing I’ve been chasing slop in my front end for a while. Any help or feed back would be greatly appreciated. I have Carli ball joints and the same tie rod set up you have but I only have 1 steering stabilizer that came with my 2.0 backcountry 3” kit.
When I did the box on my old truck I went through two defective ones and then the third was solid. It happens! You just have to be careful to really isolate the source of your play.
@@JustDiesels WOW! 2 defective boxes from the dealership, that would be about my luck. I spoke with a mechanic from the dealership this morning, he looked it over and thought the steering box was ok and said that they have to have a little play in them to keep them from binding. That being said I don't remember the truck having play in it when it was new. He did ask about the steering stabilizer and when was the last time I had serviced it. When you got the 3rd box did it have any play at all like the mechanic was talking about or was it good and tight? Also in your experience would the steering stabilizer take the remaining play out of the system. I haven't had mine serviced in a while and it may be time to upgrade to a duel stabilizer system like you have. Thanks for all your help, it's appreciated. I have a solar yellow 2005.5 with the G56 in it that I bought brand new in 2006 with 183k on it that I've done a slew of upgrades to.
I explained it in the stabilizer portion of this video, but the ATS doesn’t pre-load the drag link, and the ATS is not adjustable for tire pull. This setup solves both of those issues and as a result offers a better overall steering feel.
@@JustDiesels I currently have the updated T-style steering, Carli Torsion Sway Bar, Carli Control Arms, Carli Ball Joints, Carli Track Bar, Carli Low Munt Steering Stabilizer, King Front and Rear shocks. I installed all in 2014/2015. I'm pulling off all the Carli Parts and rebuilding the bushings/joints/wear parts and sending the ball joints in. In the meantime I bought some Synergy Ball Joints to try out. During this I'm swapping to the Synergy drag link/tie-rod setup, and adding a Borgeson Steering shaft, Redhead Box, and Synergy Steering Box Brace... So my setup will be really similar to your other Gen 3. Would you recommend switching to the Carli dual setup using the Synergy steering? Great quality content BTW...
For cool shirts, sweatshirts, and more check out the Just Diesels merch store: just-diesels.com
What I used:
www.cjcoffroad.com/products/ultimate-3rd-gen-steering-package?_pos=1&_sid=b3332460c&_ss=r
How to diagnose your steering video:
czcams.com/video/9NcLGLnXoDI/video.html
Fox ATS stabilizer video:
czcams.com/video/npFSaH_dGgQ/video.html
Carli ball joint review video:
czcams.com/video/9kkVU2lGr2I/video.html
I just rebuilt my entire front end on a 2004 2500 using CJC. I used mopar T steering upgrade, Carli track bar, Carli control arms thuren 2” coils and tuned fox shocks, fox steering stabilizer, EMF ball joints, new borgeson steering box and shaft. Truck is decent in the twisties, but I’m sawing back and forth on the freeway. I’ve been to multiple alignments in the 350 miles the truck has been built. All say I’m good.
The third shop though, who I researched and found with hundreds of 5-star yelp reviews, said something and it has me wondering. They said that new ball joints can be stiff and keep the wheels from wanting to self center. This causes me to constantly correct and feels like the front end is wandering. It’s not fun to drive on the freeway.
I’m at a loss about what to look at next…the rear leaf bushings are good too. Tomorrow I plan to pull the zerks on the ball joints to see if I applied too much grease. I followed the EMF instructions though, and the knuckle
turned freely…
@@jeremyhowell2332
What’s your tire and rim setup, size, pressures, etc? Are all four tires the same? Are your tire’s directional?
What speed are you noticed the wandering, including road condition (concrete or asphalt) and is it wandering one or both directions?
Does it wander under breaking vs acceleration or coasting?
07:00ish he talks about pre loading…
Make sure every component is installed correctly, torqued and used plenty of grease (jd corn head AN102562), crack open the box if need be.
Maybe the "thrust line" and centerline are too far apart?… especially with a solid rear axle with leafs given all you’ve done to the front.
*Worst case after double, triple checking everything including ailment is to identify your frame is squared away, literally.
I know the feeling, it’s like the truck isn’t connected to the tire’s or the road, like driving 65-70 on glass. There’s quite a few options, including factory warranties on your new part’s. Sometimes you have to adjust all parts so it all works together perfectly. Or sometimes it’s just a track bar issue… best of luck and I suspect the front end complexity doesn’t match up with the rear setup.
@@2K9s thanks for taking the time to reply. I adjusted the Carli track bar to the exact center to center measurement Carli and CJC off-road recommended.
The tire/wheel setup is all brand new as well. They are 18” Methods and 35x12.50 Nitto ridge grapplers. As far as the frame, it’s factory mint. No rust, no dents, immaculate, zero accidents.
The steering box manufacturer (borgeson) suggests I recheck to make sure the box is centered in it’s travel. I’m doing that this evening.
@@jeremyhowell2332
No problem! Hopefully you had some luck?
@@jeremyhowell2332
How’s everything going with your truck and the wandering issue? Were you able to remedy the problem and if so, how?
Thanks
I've been slowly collecting carli parts on my truck as I build it. This video is basically my finished shopping list. 😅 great video! You explained things in a way anyone (most anyone) can understand but still gave the important info and the "why" to the "what" on the parts. Amazing man. If your ever in Wyoming let me know! Would love to drool over another properly built third gen!
Andrew's 3rd gen builds are so nice that I look at mine and feel like I'm just burning cash lol I just bought the Carli Pintop 2.5 kit from CJC along with Carli full progressive leaf springs, Mopar HD steering upgrade, and Thuren active rate sway bar (probably forgetting other stuff too). Hoping this will help me sort out my steering and suspension issues but it's going to take me another 6 months to save up for those Carli ball joints. Think I should take care of my rusty cab corners first though...
My Carly ball joints were on back order from CjC for over 2 months. Canceled them an went with EMF’s an cjc got them to me in 2 days. Got $300 dollars back an they are amazing
@@luckyGdogg Might've dodged a bullet. I've got EMF on my truck and going to have carli ball joints installed next week.
I would do the emf ball joints. They are rebuildable without passing the cups out of the axle
I love this build! I had CJC send Carli 3.0, high clearance arms, extreme ball joints, torsion sway bar,Mopar tie rod, Thuren track bar, progressive springs F/R. Lowered the front and back 1" on 35s.
I know why the front carpet had 50 cups of coffee dried into it:) The stock sus had me listing and ready to sell my 08. Fortunately I kept it. The truck is a beast now on those wash boards and 1-6" rock section roads. Cody and Cole were so patient with all my questions and when people ask how much I still say it was the best investment I made on the rig.
Thanks for the great content. Just purchased an 07.5 cummins. Your content is showing me how far the rabbit hole goes. Keep it coming!
Oh it goes WAY further than I’ll ever take this truck!
Best video out there explaining 3rd gen steering, thank you
Really enjoyed your explanation on stabilizers. I mess with jeeps and have chased death wabble before. Everybody just says replace your stabilizer. That just masks the real problem. It is usually worn out parts and/or a bad alignment. I ended up replacing my worn out front control arms when I did a lift and I haven't had a problem since. I ran without a stabilizer for probably a year with no problems. Ended up putting one on when I finally got bigger tires just to dampin feedback from hitting potholes and rocks. Good quality suspension components go a long way.
Love these videos just started re doing the front suspension on my 3rd gen and these videos are great in explaining the products and how they perform.
Well done! Setting the standard!
I have a 3rd gen (08) 2500 diesel. I did the Carli 2.5 front springs, control arms, and track bar.. all VERY nice stuff. The other upgrade that I did that made a HUGE difference, was the steering box. Going from the "4 bolt" sector shaft box to the 4th gen style "6 bolt" sector shaft box. It went from driving like an old Ford Pinto, to driving like a modern Corvette (in comparison of course). With the old steering, I always felt like I was up on the wheel constantly doing small corrections to keep it in the lanes. With the new, I can drive with one hand on the wheel and relax a bit..
Absolutely the 6 bolt box and upgraded steering shaft is a must!! I have radius arms and love it
Looking forward to be system being installed this month, thanks for all the great advice and videos!
Ended up putting dyna track ball joints in 15 years ago. I put track bar bushings in last year. Just finished putting in 09 plus linkage and a 6 bolt redhead upgrade. I will have to look into Carli track bar in a few years when bushings start to get wear.
Hey man. Really nice 3rd gen. The video was awesome and very well explained. Keep it up.
Andrew- hands frickin down THE BEST Ram steering video ever. So many answers were delivered in this video. One little nugget: Toyo's wandering to the right? Dude, now I am not questioning my sanity on that issue any more after brand new shoes hahaha. Big Carli fan, did the leveling springs shocks etc on a new '23 3500 single tire with the Carli track bar and man am I glad we did that. Had to do an emergency 40 MPH hard right full brake lock into the boonies to avoid a catastrophic rear ender and it bent every thing BUT the Carli track bar. Drag link looked like a smile emogi. Your knowledge, prod quality, VO, cadence etc etc top notch man. Sub'ed of course.
Appreciate the support, and you are not crazy on the Toyo MT pull. Actually a ton of tires have a solid pull one way or the other. Super common!
Just here living vicariously through you until I can find such an awesome truck.
Ideally you should look for a truck that was owned by an older man with low mileage who never towed. I repeat never ever buy a truck from a young kid that does questionable stupid mods. And never buy a truck from a Mexican , their goal is to screw you over with sub par trucks and then disappear off the face of the earth
Nice choice in parts. I may swap my synergy trackbar to a Carli when the bushings wear our. Those design considerations were not considered when I was just trying to deal with death wobble on a tight time frame. I am running Carli ball joints, Synergy steering/trackbar, with PSC big bore box with ram assist. The steering is not the quickest with the ram assist but it holds the wheels in position no matter what I run over.
Just to push the point home, my 2007 Wrangler on 37s ran 5 years without a steering stabilizer. I would even hit corners hard and drive 80mph. Once it got hit while parked, I had to add one since the insurance company refused to fix the frame. Never the same. But 75k miles without a stabilizer. Alignments, maintenance and care are all I needed!
You’re 100% correct. I don’t have a steering stabilizer on my 03 2500.
I found it’s mostly in the steering box?
Keep the steering box adjusted?
However when you have loose Tie rods and ball joints or bad track bar.
It will start the process of the steering box constantly changing directions.
Hey man love the videos. Always has great info for guys that want to build a 3rd gen property. I recently ordered carli performance 2.0 kit for my 05 powerwagon. And wasn't away of the 08+ t style steering. Looks like I gotta get that too.
Killer view on that test drive.
Awesome video. A lot of great information and explanations...thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Man I love my 2005 Cummins Quad Cab 4x4. I have the full Carli 3” Dominator. I went with King Shocks though. I did the full rear leaf option w/ the air bags. Steering Stabilizer and the high clearance extended control arms. I also got the Mercenary front and back bumper. I got the back bumper on but having trouble with the front bumper.
Great looking truck
Great info!! Just picked up a 3rd gen myself and definitely going to upgrade the steering components, hopefully soon🤙
Liking the Carli gear. Awaiting delivery of my 97 12v p-pumped 4x4 5spd. Should be a good build. Cheers gents.
Very nice video Andrew 👍🏻
bro, thank you so much for this video, im working on restoring a 2nd gen with my dad and weve be having issues figuring it out.
I’ll likely do a similar one all about 2nd gens since there’s some major differences!
I know its anecdotal but I've had a full MOOG tie-rod drag-link setup on my truck with no issues for the last 60k miles. Northeast winters and some beat downs in the dunes.
Me too been really good and I commute 300 miles everyday
Nice build man. Looks great and I bet it drives even better. Currently going through the rigamarole to improve the steering on my 3rd gen. Your videos definitely help!
Sadly it’s not cheap to do right, but once you have it all knocked out you’ll be so stoked!
@@JustDiesels especially now. I looked at prices for some of these parts and prices have gone up $2-300 in the last year or two. 😬
Yep, it’s rough!
Your 3rd Gen build gives me inspiration and hope for my own 3rd Gen! Right now I’m battling steering issues. Before you started your channel I bought a PSC mopar big box with hydro assist ram. I haven’t installed it yet because life got in the way. This video has me wondering if it will be the solution I’m after as I doubt the powered hydraulic Ram will provide positive pressure in both directions like you described. It will resist movement in both directions but i don’t think it will provide steering bias pressure to correct for tire pull.
The Hydro assist has a very specific purpose though in that it relieves pressure from the box when it comes to muscling around big tires at low speeds. I personally would only run that on an off road toy though as I’m not fond of the highway feel with hydro. It’s a personal preference, but I think it’s a bit too twitchy. Other people swear by it!
I am contemplating on selling my 3rd gen 5.9 with 148k so I can get a 4th gen. But Andrews 3rd gen builds look soo damn clean that I Reel myself back in and decide on keeping my 3rd gen. 😂 I love your videos Andrew!
3rd gen really the way to go. Especially if you have the g56 or nv5600 transmission.
Your truck is freakin sick I just got an 06 and would love to put that stuff on mine one day
One thing at a time! Congratulations on the new truck.
Can I get a full list of everything you installed. I just upgraded my entire braking system. Now I'm going to do the full front end. This is awesome man. . Buddy of mine sent me a link to this video. As in terms of what to do next I would focus on the suspension and brakes before you do any power adders. Love the video man
Click that link in the top pinned comment! It’s got everything you need in one kit! Mopar steering, Carli ball joints, Carli track bar, and Carli high/low stabilizers!
I liked the video.... wish I knew several years ago.. my 08 2500 6.7l needed a bunch of stuff so I got new 20 in rims, 35 in tires, 1 in level kit, new shocks and replaced the front end. I made the mistake of trying to budget kit it and bought most through rough country. After installing anything I can't understand how they haven't killed someone yet but now I'm stuck with it until I can slowly purchase everything to fix it right. I agree about moog, I've always got there products and loved it until this truck... they don't hold up at all.
Bro. Solid info on pulling left or right from tire treads. Thanks
So knowledgeable !! wow
I went with Synergy steering on my 2012 only because after about a decade in the Midwest no amount of heat and penetrating oil was gonna get my factory tie rod adjustment loose! Good excuse to buy some parts.
Make sure u use copper anti seize on the threads in salty winter areas, synergy can still seize up in states that use alot if salt or brine
I not a expert just here to learn . Interesting that you can load the steering to pull one way or the other with the steering stabilize. A long time ago when I worked for gm I aligned a few car ect . I was told to add a bit more positive caster to the right wheel to make the vehicle pull to the crown of the road . I know some liked to use camber but I wanted to make the tires wear flat as possible. So I was wondering if thar could be done with adjustable ball joints on a dodge since it's a solid axle ..I trying to up grade my old second gen especially the front steering thanks for the video
I love your in-depth videos on these trucks, especially since I bought one myself. Would you go with the 6 bolt red head steering box for an upgrade?
I’d do a new OEM Mopar big big (same box but not re-man) just like I did on my last truck!
@@JustDiesels Thanks for the reply!
The pull to the right is exacerbated with positive scrub radius. Stock these trucks have a slight negative scrub radius. I kept the stock rims and went to 35” so I don’t have the “steering wonder”.
Next question is what clutch are you going to upgrade to and what fluid to calm down all the racket the trans will make with the conversion from the dmf?
Like the videos.👍👍👍👍👍
I have been fighting my 3rd gen front end for a while now...I have changed everything! Synergy ball joints, one piece draglink ( with heim joints on every corner, even track bar) redhead steering box, borgeson steering shaft. It still wonders all over the road. Kinda scary to drive, it has a 4" lift with 37x12.50x18 Method nv315 on it. If you have any input on how to stop the wondering please help! Thanks man love the channel!
I love the rims what is the specs on the rim? And are they trail ready wheels?
I really enjoy your videos. Great the way you explain things. why didn't you go with the Carli or Thuren Sway Bar and Links? I was planning to replace my OEM with Carli or Thuren on my 08 3500 Mega Cab on 35s. Have you ever run either kit? Thoughts?
That’s because I went with a full Carli sway bar when I did the Dominator system! czcams.com/video/IfaBgmNtKNA/video.html
When it comes to sway bars, both Carli and Thuren will dramatically improve ride, and I can’t say you’ll notice a difference behind the wheel. The Carli sway bar does offer better build quality, better frame brackets, better joints and better end links, so I chose that route. Thuren is a great bang for the buck though if you want the solid ride improvement for the least amount of money.
I can definitely tell you are into mountain biking based on your knowledge of how stabilizers/shocks/dampers work haha
100% haha.
had synergy drag link/tie rods, dodge off road trac bar on 2nd gen ran great!. Put moog on my 3rd gen to save some money, huge mistake!
Andrew, would you comment on the differences/ use case between hydro assist and your dampner set up? I just put 37's on my 3rd gen. Thuren control arms, track bar and 2" prog springs up front and shackles in the rear. I plan on continuing to build and replace old parts to new or improved parts. Im ready to do my steering box and linkage. Im contemplating the apex and hydro assist. The reason is that with the 37's I feel hydro assist may help save parts and make stering these large tread patches easier. Also feel like it will help in wonder that the dampener set up also accomplishes. Thoughts, advise? Thanks
Is there anything other than mounting clamp size keeping you from using this stabilizer setup on the synergy steering?
I just sold my 2020 HO 6.7 and bought an 06 5.9 mega cab manual with 98k miles. It has a 4" fabtech lift with Fox shocks. I want to take it down to stock in the rear and 2-2.5' level kit in front, running 35's, while fixing any 06 issues. What is your recommendation for a parts list? It's for practical use in NW Montana but I'd like some longevity and versatility out of it. Thanks
Man you absolutely kill it with your videos! Does your steering stabilizer explanation apply to the Superduty dual stabilizers also?
Actually yes! Same principal on how they work! Slightly different mounting brackets, but that’s it!
@@JustDiesels fantastic thank you!
Thanks for the information!! Now to sell a kidney😆
I would greatly appreciate ya’lls advice. I have an 06 2500 diesel with thuren sway bar, track bar, hxd t-style steering, 6” soft ride coil springs. What’s next?
If I go w/ Carli Back Country Full Kit what other steering parts up front should I replace and with what? 2012 Cumins Ram 2500
Brakes, steering, tires/wheels. In that order. Then transmission. Followed by the engine mods.
One day soon you’re gonna cost me lots of money. But my ‘06 mega gonna be wicked.
I have a 1994 ram Second Gen, What set up is best for a stable steering system. Have replaced the Track bar, still alot of play. All ball joints have been replace. Also have the cross bar to hold the shaft on the steering box. I have been told to change to the new style of track bar, with bracked change??
Bob.
@cjcoffroad just did a two part video series on that. Check it out!
Great video. Did you also look at the Synergy linkage as well as the MOPAR system? Just wondering what drove the choice to MOPAR? I have a 2005 Ram 3500 5.9l and am looking to do a number of upgrades before next Summer. Only at 118,000 miles, so figure I have lots of miles left in it. Thank you.
Yep! Synergy has terrible stabilizer compatibility. I’ve since switched to Apex because the Mopar steering wasn’t robust enough
@@JustDiesels Thanks. I am really enjoying all the videos! To clarify, I am using the truck mainly for personal use, towing a horse trailer. Might do some very mild off-roading, only enough to reach some good fly fishing spots! The APEX is quite a bit pricier, especially in Canadian dollars. Is the MOPAR kit a "good" upgrade?
What shock set up on my truck that is lifted 4 to 4 1/2”.
Would I use the 3” lift or 6” lift
Unrelated to steering but related to the third gen: you going to toss on COA cab lights? Been reading reviews and man are they mixed.
I can’t find the video do you have a link where you compare the true OEM to the synergy
I had this job done by a shop and they used all moog stuff before we went to Baja for a month last winter. It all failed. 05 dodge 2500 hd 4x cummins. Should the toe in be 1/8th?
Andrew do you still recommend mopar steering linkage t style today ?
High tire pressure without a load on will cause death wobbles as well.
What pressures are you running in your upper and lower steering stabilizers? I’m going to install mine this weekend and am trying to get an idea of if I am going to need to adjust them. Thanks for the info.
40-70 is neutral. I recommend starting from there, and then adding additional pressure to one or the other if needed to correct for a tire pull. You can experiment with it though if you have easy access to dry nitrogen!
Thanks for this! Money and time aside, would a hydro assist yield the same or better results than the Carli high/low setup?
It has a different purpose. Hydro is great for pushing big tires around at low speed where tons of force is necessary so that the box isn’t doing the work. It does make for a twitchy highway driving experience though, so I’ll never do it on any of my trucks as they aren’t dedicated off road rigs. The Carli High low is a better do it all stabilizer setup for people driving their trucks like normal trucks!
@@JustDiesels got it, thanks for sharing your opinion. My stock gearbox is worn out and needs replacing, and the PSC gearbox and Ram only cost $275 more than the Carli High/Low kit, so that’s what I’m deciding between.
You gonna do paint match headlights and put cab lights on it like the last truck or keep the black housings and smooth hood?
I’ll do custom lighting again, but can’t decide on the cab lights!
has anyone thought of or is it possible to do a newer style ford dana 60 front end swap? or are they to unlike.
at 6:46 we see what appears to be a new truck undercarriage. how did you get this so tidy?
Are the 5th gen 3500s built way different than this ?
The reason I ask is although my truck is new, I’m new to the smaller HD stuff. I’ve only had 5500s or bigger the last 10 years
What happened to the 2nd gen build update, was promised a leaf spring & track bar video, I have yet to see it?
Got too many projects going on at once! It’s coming though. Just wanted to catch the third gen up to the current state!
No steering box stab or box upgrade?
Could you post your alignment specs? Toe, caster or camber which ever one is adjustable on the solid axle trucks.
Toe should be .05 degrees, caster should be 3-4 even on both sides, and then camber isn’t adjustable on a solid axle truck.
@@JustDiesels thanks
I need help. I have a 2006 5.9 4x4 160000 miles. The second set of tires 97000 to 150000 wore hard on the outer edge on the fronts...positive camber? Before my new set of tires I got it aligned. He said everything was tight but no way to adjust camber on my truck. Any way to get this fixed?
What are your full alignment specs? Camber isn’t adjustable on these trucks, so you likely have too much toe in.
I’m going to look at a 09 2500 tomorrow again but the steering wheel has 2-3 inches of play that I’m worried about. I wonder if what your showing us will fix that
I have a whole video on diagnosing steering issues! Super easy stuff to fix
I need to go your alignment guy . I have nearly everything you have less the dual stabilizer I have a single with Kore unlimited setup my truck has 130,xxx miles & been thru 4 alignment shops & my truck still has abnormal steering with every front end part upgraded .
Carli ball joint top/bottom
Bd track bar
Upgraded Chrysler steering rack
Fox true steering damper
New 37’s
Yet still can’t seem to get the setup solid and like it was when new stock . Even had fox shocks rebuilt which didn’t need it as the tech stated oil was still great had new nitrogen also . The tech asked if the shocks had been off-roading or just a ball crawler as they didn’t need to be serviced .
I’d start with ripping off that BD track bar. They make a ton of great stuff but their track bar is not up to par. Tell your alignment guy to do 1/16” of toe angle, and then 3-4 degrees of caster. Should help!
so what does that cost out the door? if you don't mind me asking.....
If you don’t mind. What wheel size/offset Tire size you have? I have a 2005 Dodge 2500 Quad Cab 4x4 Cummins. I don’t won’t my wheels sticking 10’ out from my truck.
These are 5” backspace 17x8.5 wheels wrapped in a 35/12.5/17 tire on stock suspension. 👍
atta boy
I did look at the carli track bar for my truck, 05 f350, but unfortunatly it will not work in a stock height application. in this case ill most likely run all synergy steering components.
It works just fine for stock to 6" lift. I used it on a stock height truck in this video.
@@JustDiesels in my case per the Cali website it will not work on a stock height truck.
What are your thoughts on hydro assist steering when truck lives on 37s or larger for most of its life?
Hydro assist is amazing, have had it for a couple years. All PSC…
I have a 2nd gen Ram that I rebuilt the front end on, but the steering is still loose. I am going to put a steering box in it, but I am debating between a Redhead and a Bluetop. Was wondering if you had experience with either of these, or if you had any other recommendations.
I’d say redhead or PSC for 2nd gen boxes!
Put a big third gen box in. PSC used to sell a kit that was a new box, the spacers needed to clear the 2nd gen frame, and new longer bolts, and a new pitman arm. The difference in size on the sector shaft / bearing is crazy and it completely changed the feel and power of my steering. Those redhead / Bluetop boxes are just expensive remans for a steering box that was undersized for a second gen diesel from the get go.
so the clamps that come in the carli opposing stabilizer fit the oem steering linkage?
Correct. CJC off road also sells clamps for Apex steering.
Hey man I love the truck! I have an 08 ram quad cab short bed with 49k miles. I was curious your fuel mileage before and after your mods! Any response is appreciated! Keep it up!!
I’ll find out, but I expect highway mileage to improve significantly with the 37s and tuning since I was winding the truck out so badly before. With the stock wheels and tires it was doing almost 2500 RPM at 70!
@@JustDiesels yeah I saw, that's nuts! Let us know! I'm excited to hear.
I’m still kinda new to my truck and this type of suspension so forgive the ignorance but I have a 2006 1500 mega cab which shares the same suspension as the 2500 diesels correct? If so would this work for my truck too?
Actually yeah, the 3rd gen mega 1500s use the 2500 style suspension, so this would apply directly to your truck.
is there a similar review of the 2013 (3500's) ? 4th Gen? I recognize the same issues shown in this video in my 2013, my suspension shop says I have the Y-suspension, but still seems to have an un-adjustable alignment (caster?), unless offset adjustable ball joints are added.
A 13 3500 is actually the same as all the 14+ trucks. You have a MUCH better steering setup! All the same info applies with the exception of the linkage itself. If you need a replacement, do the 19+ OEM parts. There’s also a new brand called Apex that is making steering for these trucks. Curious to see how their stuff compares!
These trucks do not have adjustable camber which is likely what you’re referring to. Never ever do offset balljoints! Do you know what your camber spec is? These trucks come from the factory with some positive camber, but negative means your axle housing is bent!
What fog lights are you running? Currently have an 08 ram 2500 and I want some amber LED fogs.
Just factory! Going to upgrade to these soon: www.cjcoffroad.com/collections/ram-lighting-kits/products/cjc-off-road-2003-2009-dodge-ram-fog-light-led-brackets
I'm sure you have this info on another video, but what's the wheel and tire setup?
17” Trail Ready wheels with 35/12.5/17 Nitto Ridge Grapplers.
Can you sent me a link to the radio that's in your truck?
Do you have any experience with the EMF ball joints? It seems like they're the only ones making anything better than factory for the 2000-2002 trucks.
Yes! That’s exactly what my 2nd gen is going to get when the time comes. It’s either them or Dynatrac for the 2nd gen ball joint market!
@@JustDiesels Sweet, if you trust them then I do. I don't know what is different about the 2000-2002 trucks but Dynatrac doesn't appear to make anything for those years either.
How come you didn't add the Carli leveling coils and the Carli control arms
I did that and a whole lot more a few weeks later!
czcams.com/video/IfaBgmNtKNA/video.html
How is the chassis so black? Classy Chassis from shine supply?
It’s in good shape to start with, but it’s coated with Adam’s polishes undercarriage spray.
I have a question for you. I just upgraded my steering box to the Ram big bore box that you have. This unit brand new out of the box has about 1/4-1/2” of play in it. Did you notice anything like that in your unit? I’m pretty frustrated with what I’m seeing I’ve been chasing slop in my front end for a while. Any help or feed back would be greatly appreciated. I have Carli ball joints and the same tie rod set up you have but I only have 1 steering stabilizer that came with my 2.0 backcountry 3” kit.
When I did the box on my old truck I went through two defective ones and then the third was solid. It happens! You just have to be careful to really isolate the source of your play.
@@JustDiesels WOW! 2 defective boxes from the dealership, that would be about my luck. I spoke with a mechanic from the dealership this morning, he looked it over and thought the steering box was ok and said that they have to have a little play in them to keep them from binding. That being said I don't remember the truck having play in it when it was new. He did ask about the steering stabilizer and when was the last time I had serviced it. When you got the 3rd box did it have any play at all like the mechanic was talking about or was it good and tight? Also in your experience would the steering stabilizer take the remaining play out of the system. I haven't had mine serviced in a while and it may be time to upgrade to a duel stabilizer system like you have. Thanks for all your help, it's appreciated. I have a solar yellow 2005.5 with the G56 in it that I bought brand new in 2006 with 183k on it that I've done a slew of upgrades to.
Have you used the apex kit yet for a 3rd gen Cummins and when is the corresponding video please
It’s going on my truck this week! This video was filmed before this was an option.
@@JustDiesels so when is the video I’m getting started I n mine this weekend I’m hoping.
What wheels are those and size?
Can I install the 08 and up Mopar t style on my 2nd gen?
Nope! But Synergy makes a great kit specific to early and late 2nd gens! www.cjcoffroad.com/collections/dodge-steering-upgrades-and-components
Will the 08 T-Style work on my 97 3500 cummins 4x4?
Nope, but the Synergy HD 2nd gen steering will!
What was wrong with the steering setup on your other 3rd gen that I thought you'd perfected when you installed the ATS? How does this setup compare?
I explained it in the stabilizer portion of this video, but the ATS doesn’t pre-load the drag link, and the ATS is not adjustable for tire pull. This setup solves both of those issues and as a result offers a better overall steering feel.
@@JustDiesels I currently have the updated T-style steering, Carli Torsion Sway Bar, Carli Control Arms, Carli Ball Joints, Carli Track Bar, Carli Low Munt Steering Stabilizer, King Front and Rear shocks. I installed all in 2014/2015. I'm pulling off all the Carli Parts and rebuilding the bushings/joints/wear parts and sending the ball joints in. In the meantime I bought some Synergy Ball Joints to try out. During this I'm swapping to the Synergy drag link/tie-rod setup, and adding a Borgeson Steering shaft, Redhead Box, and Synergy Steering Box Brace... So my setup will be really similar to your other Gen 3. Would you recommend switching to the Carli dual setup using the Synergy steering? Great quality content BTW...
Could you not attach this stabilizer set up to synergy ?
Nope! Synergy only works with a low mount position stabilizer in the factory location.
Where did you find your front bumper?
From a dealer parts site