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CrapShoveler
Dodge Dakota
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7/01/2004
08:59:45

Subject: Truck is pulling to the right
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I just have a quick question for you guys, my 1995 Dakota is starting to slightly pull to the right and I also noticed that the steering seems to be getting loose. I mean if I hit a bump in the road, the steering tries to go one way or the other. It is a pain in the butt. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.



other bill
Dodge Dakota
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7/01/2004
11:58:53

RE: Truck is pulling to the right
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C. Shoveler,
How many miles are on it?

Let's start with the easy stuff:
1. It could be as simple as a tire having less air than the others (yes, this will cause drift). Check all 4 as even a rear tire can cause this.
2. Try greasing the front end components. If they are lacking on grease, it can allow the front end to have play.

A little bit more in depth:
1. Depending on mileage, it could be a tie-rod end (inner or outer). Sometimes you can see this by jacking up the rig by the lower control arm, then with the wheel suspended, try to move the tire as though you were turning. If there is significant play in a tie-rod end, you may see it. Do one wheel at a time to check this accurately.
2. It could be the pitman arm (the piece that connects the steering linkage to the steering box) is worn out. With both wheels up simultaneously in the manner described before, try moving the drivers tire the same way while watching the pitman arm. This is what was worn out on my 95 4x4 at 68k miles! It can be a booger to get of the steering box shaft.
3. The idler arm(looks like a pitman arm but is attached to the opposite frame rail) is checked much in the same manner.

A reputable alignment shop in your area should be able to easily diagnose the problem....AND show you what part is bad.

Hope this helps.



CrapShoveler
Dodge Dakota
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7/01/2004
17:27:49

RE: Truck is pulling to the right
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Hey, thanks for the suggestions. My truck does have a little over 110,000 miles, so one of the parts you listed is probably worn out since I already made sure the tires were at the correct pressure. I going to have to try what you said. Thanks again.



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