How to Diagnose and Fix Death Wobble

New Dodge Ram trucks & Jeeps drive great, but what about lifted altered suspension trucks with almost 200k miles? They often need help to be safe. In this case study of a Ram 3500 we narrow bump steer and death wobble down to being a failed steering gear box. See the before and after and get the owners reaction to driving it and the frustration and the expense to get there.
This is the steering gear box brace mentioned in this video → amzn.to/2nLddC7 These protect the new gear box and add rigidity to the frame.
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[@rhcwpeps]

Brian, I just watched the Pull Apart show, and wanted to say as someone that has epilepsy and knows how scary it is to have one and how scary it is for the family, I want to say I appreciate you for donating that money towards the cause of fighting epilepsy. After hearing your story, I hope that your daughter gets even better with her seizures and I hope that one day it'll go away. You're a stand up guy, you gained a subscriber brother.

[@wyattoneable]

I think I figured out why your a happy person. You have balance in your life. You work hard but spent time outdoors enjoying your other passions. I've enjoyed your channel over the years for the information you provide, but it didn't take long for me to understand your passionate about helping others. Putting that smile on the customer face was more rewarding than the money you received to get the job done. I just know it.

[@robinsonsmotorcycleandauto3929]

Good Job Brian guy sure seems super happy with his truck and that is always the end goal. Keep up the great work

[@rrmech11]

Nice job Brian And great to see customer happy. Its always a good feeling to fix repairs

[@johnston396]

Hey Brian I just watched the Pull Apart Challenge videos. To be honest I haven’t seen your videos before but I just gained a huge amount of respect for you. You seem like a great guy, keep up the good work

[@codeyhanna767]

Great job and knowledge shared. Not only did you cover the problem but other parts that can cause that problem. I love how to fix videos. Learning fixes part by part thanks to KZbin. Love the channel Brian :)

[@b.a.z1072]

This guy was ecstatic like a child on Christmas morning on driving after the repair... Great job brian, great vids

[@wbball15]

Nicely done, Brian. Thanks for sharing.

[@ozzstars_cars]

Nice job with the fix Brian. Now the truck owner can Keep on truckin!

[@318Huslta]

Excellent video!!!

[@mandomaldonado4498]

Bonus footage is awesome!!!

[@truestory85pacman]

Love the ending B, very surprised to see my beautiful red sands home! ✊✊😍

[@Edawg1093]

Love the videos, have you ever thought about doing a fix video on the common Dodge "steering pull to the right" issue? I have a 2014 Cummins with 44000 miles that pulls to the right badly, even after alignment. Seems to be a hot topic on a lot of forums with no answers. Thanks! Keep on making vids!

[@paulg444]

We love Brian !!

[@eggracer1]

You explains things very well

[@juanherrera2672]

Hey Brian great vids awesome info thanks fer doing what u do man. I know u have a ram 2500 now anyways iv had death wobble a few times and every time i think i solved it it pokes its head out later going 80 mph somewhere and scares they heck out of anyone in my truck and iv just come to the conclusion im almost to the point of giving up and getting a GM but HEAR THIS! if there was an aftermarket adjustable cast iron, forged track bar for my truck i think it would help there is clearly flex on any after market track bar. i dont understand why no one makes an aftermarket forged steel ,cast iron tie rod and drag link or track bar for my year 2012 or prior but they are made for jeeps and several different brands. eventually u will get death wobble just a thought .thank again Brian

[@bullrambler]

Having a great deal of experience with Dodge Gen 2 and Gen 3 2500 trucks the first item that usually creates steering and death Wobble issues can be found in the track bar bushings. With an OEM Track bar one can change the bushings 1 or 2 times before the Track bar looses it's ability to do the job it is designed to do with other OEM steering - system parts. Usually after the OEM bushings wear out and 2 subsequent sets of bushings are installed it's time for a new track bar. Given the price variation of Track Bars on the market - the OEM track bars are fine. These are usually less expensive then After Market Track bars. Balls joints usually wear out and need to be replaced - so they are considered secondary parts that can cause problems. Dodge had a recall on the steering linkage for Gen 3 trucks and "parted-in" the linkage from a 4500 or 5500 system. At least that's what my local dealer did. With that part the Steering dampener (looks like a shock) was upgraded and made a difference. There is a steering gear box stabilizer bar that should strengthen the steering system and it can be added as well. I haven't installed it on the Gen 3 that I drive but it is probably something that can be done for a decent price and could be installed at home by a DIY. Also, a small item is the bolts and nuts for the track bar as the OEM ones will create some play when they wear. It's good to change these out when a new track bar is installed. Shocks are often over looked sometimes and they need to be changed out too. With the heavy springs in the front end it can be tricky to properly assess the proper time to do this.

[@haroldlm64]

Good job.

[@wurkanimal]

Yup that's my truck exactly with the death wobble (2003 Dodge Ram 3500 5.9 Cummins. I think I'll be getting the red head gear box too.

[@rcchar]

Happy Birthday Brian.

[@jasonmariani1258]

Thanks great video my truck is now doing the exact same dodge death wobble

[@jeremywilson8334]

Hi Jason, How did you fix the death wobble in your truck? thanks

[@blackericdenice]

I put a rebuilt steering gear on my 96 Tahoe and It made it easy one way and normal the other way. I want ever buy a rebuilt SG again.

[@Joshua.Muenchow]

Red head👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 love mine!!!

[@tintshopnc5552]

i have the steering box brace , just ordered the stabilizer from safe t steer and end links that are urethane. i hope it solves the issue. under 70 mph not terrible over that is a little scary

[@TK-tv9qz]

Nice ! I have similar issues with my 98 sierra do they make it for gmc as well?

[@christopherdopp8307]

Brian, Check out , thatmanmrchris, vid on the steering column play fix at the rubber dampener coupler. I bet thats where most wobble comes from.

[@bdd1469]

To anyone with a dodge having issues, and thinking about replacing your steering gear because you watched a video.. I have repaired death wobble and bump steer on dozens of dodge trucks and jeeps. I don't recall ever replacing a gear box, unless it was an after market box that some bought because they watched a youtube video... 99.9 % of the time the track bar is the problem, the track bar mounting holes are elongated, or the steering shaft ujoints/ ragejoints.. What Im saying is......don't spend money on a gear box, brace, and other bullshit you dont need. 99% of dodge trucks go down the road just fine with no after market box , brace, or bandaid ( fancy steering stabs with huge prices and names like fox) ......

[@willhikearizona]

You didn't mention correct tire pressure to correct death wobble. At least that is what Ford issued as a safety bulletin for the super duty. Just curious if you think it was due to something other than tire pressure.

[@workingshlub8861]

had a old dakota that had probably a 1/4 turn before wheels would move...big time play. i just used to plow my driveway so i did not care...to lazy to put new steering box in.

[@cd1168]

Can you post the gearbox and shaft part numbers

[@chargersgobolts2010]

I got a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L with a rapid thumping when I get to 50mph any thoughts?

[@jeralddegraw6069]

LOVE it...got the same problem :-(

[@billness2635]

How about some part numbers? I have an 05 3500 4x4 with 174,000 miles that I just replaced the ball joints and all the link rods on. Even with 35x12.50/18 Toyo tires, it hasn’t had the steering issues your truck had, but my box is leaking and want to replace it. So the box you used, the Pittman arm and damper info would be appreciated!

[@ivansolis2465]

Hey show the link of the steering wheel I can’t find it on that description

[@Jason-yq1zs]

Will the newer rams off the lot today have these problems down the road? Are they the same design or did Ram change it?

[@bullrambler]

Brian your always fairly through on repairs and I responded to your video about a year ago but there is something I came across that could be suggested as an add-on fix. It's called the Big O Bushin from 4x4plus.com I would suggest you have a look at the video and parts that comprise this particular solution.

[@jasongaumont5099]

Would this brace work on the 95 3500 ram

[@BigStuism]

Whats the link for the red head steering box

[@miguellavoie4373]

Got the same issue with an 08 f250. 4 inch lift on 33's. Just fuckin frightening at 80 mph. Even scarier on ice.

[@curiosity2314]

That suspension is old but so are many.. There is a way to get out of 1970 but how.. TTD Tesla (Light/Heavy) Truck Division. Well past time to rethink suspension and all automotive technology. I have seen this tech for 40 years, Zero progress equals zero gain. It's well past time to move forward.. Other wise we are just playing games that need not be played.

[@spelunkerd]

I don't understand why people choose to lift trucks for cosmetic reasons. If anything, a high box makes it harder to use.

[@FishFind3000]

spelunkerd yep, it’s completely stupid

[@briansmobile1]

This 3500 has a leveling kit in the front to clear bigger tires. The bigger tires give better ground clearance and a much better ride- especially in a 3500 like this. I'd pick his truck every time for anything rough terrain. (his use for it) I test drove it for bump steer on the old airport road (potholes 30cm deep every 50 meters) and it wasn't smooth per say, but it was SO much nicer than my truck is being stock tires and a leveling kit. I drive that road several times a week. I'd really love to get what he has for tires. His leveling kit is longer better riding springs too.

[@DarkLinkAD]

Im thinking of a body lift, just to cool down the floors/transmission in my truck. Might be worth it in the summer.

[@utahcountypicazospage5412]

That's awesome and when you want moog parts come get it at advance 1484 north state street Orem I'm commercial there now

[@SuperDave21]

Hey Brian, great video... makes me want to ask you a question about my Chevy truck. It's a 1991 C1500 350 TBI and 700R4 trans. 2 wheel drive, stock ride height. 2 years ago I had a lower ball joint break... so I replaced everything under the front end. I put in all Moog parts, including upper and lower control arms, idler, upper & lower ball joints, center link, tie rod ends with adjuster links, pitman arm... etc. I ordered a fast ratio NAPA rebuilt steering gearbox and installed it and had it aligned by the best place in my hometown. It didn't want to return after a U turn, it was vague and you could move the steering wheel about as much as this videos... with little tire movement. I didn't mess with the steering shaft or rag joint... what is your opinion of my issues? (All new tires and Bilstein shocks installed also). Thanks.

[@baddriversofnorthtexas6850]

SuperDave21 gmt400.com ask there

[@SuperDave21]

Thanks Brother... I'll check into it. Have some Happy Holidays!!

[@willhikearizona]

Sounds like improper caster angle of it doesn't want to return to center.

[@SuperDave21]

I've gotten that part worked out... it's the slop in the steering that worries me. I spend about 1400.00 on the front end rebuild so far and it's not like a new truck yet. That was my goal. Tired of rowing a boat when I drive it lol...

[@sealteamryx6758]

Where was the end of the video shot?

[@olivedraboriginal]

Please help us figure out why some of the 4th gen trucks shake at around 70 mph. Thank you!

[@navy_vet]

Olive Drab it is the transforce tires. I changed mine at 10000 miles and have had no issues since. Something is wrong with those tires and no one will admit it.

[@jth1987leb]

Could the steering gear have damaged by the aftermarket rims and tires?

[@briansmobile1]

Bigger diameter tires than stock are a lot harder on the whole steering system, but it can definitely be overcome. The new steering gear I'm told was always problematic when first installed and the particular frame to gear brace he had that helps make a gear last- was incompatible with the 6 bolt gear shown.

[@Mynyel]

wish i could find a mechanic that could do this to my Ram. The dealership is so rushed with orders that they don't take the time to properly fix my steering issues which I still have to some degree.

[@13rbridge]

Brian I live here in Utah I want you to work on my truck.

[@PuchMaxi]

Talking about Pitman, how's Matt?

[@jerrodl]

20008?!?? A truck from the future! I woulda thought trucks'd be more advanced 18000 years from now...

[@SteveRobReviews]

Awesome fix . Poor Dodge has taken a beating on that problem over the years . I wonder if the new trucks suffer from the same condition . HAHA I hope not !!! Cheers

[@briansmobile1]

My 14 had it bad after a leveling kit and a heavy trailer load. Stock was fine. Airbags in the rear solved the issue. "Steering geometry" is a good description. It's a dynamic problem. There's a lot that can go wrong in that design, but especially when modified.

[@bubbacrabb]

You'd think dodge would fix it. I wonder how many people have died because of this problem

[@jonruger]

my buddies 2017 does it if you hit a bump over 60 bone stock it did it when the truck was days old. doesn't even have 30k and has done it several times. my 97 and 02 both do it bad even after all fresh parts.

[@SteveRobReviews]

WOW i don't like the sounds of that. Yikes

[@mrajinj661]

Yeah slop in your steering components definitely help to cause the death wobble. But one way to insure you never have it again is a Carli adjustable track bar and a tough country long arm kit. Now I can do 120 without any worries!

[@donald1056]

There was a lot of play in the steering box -that was that bad

[@TheRick2130]

"death wobble" in aviation term ground resonance

[@ShadowMan5563]

sounds like a Ford issue at all that bump steer... that is scary at 80 miles an hour...

[@FishFind3000]

Big lift and big tires would explain why it failed

[@rongray4118]

No one ever says how much in parts and labor for the fix.

[@michaeldee7114]

How often do you come Navajo Nation.

[@morteparla6926]

Not exclusive to Ram. In fact, you'll find every solid front axle vehicle can get the death wobble. It's unfairly attributed to Dodge/Ram, as just as many Ford's and Chevy's with solid front axles will developed this problem. Since both front wheels are tied together, hitting the right pump at the right speed can loosen enough parts to cause death wobble.

[@moneymac2864]

How long is that new steering box going to last?

[@briansmobile1]

Much longer if he puts his brace on soon with some red loctite on the bearing lock screw. I would guess 7-8 years with 15k miles a year. Two years or less if he doesn't. Big tires eat steering gears on this year range.

[@ruben25900]

Monument valley?

[@briansmobile1]

Very good! That's right. 4 corners area.

[@bubbacrabb]

Man I wish you lived near me Brian. My 06 Cummins is a night mare to drive. I will never own another dodge again. I'll buy American made Tundra, made here in the Hoosier state;)

[@BuckarooBeatdown]

bubbacrabb I thought they started making Tundras in Texas as of 2008

[@bubbacrabb]

Donald Darko I thought they still made them in Princeton Indiana. I may be wrong. I know when it came to buying my wife a new car we got her a Subaru legacy cause they're made in Lafayette, Indiana. I'd be cool with a Texas tundra if they moved them there. I know that Toyota plant is huge down there off 41 in Indiana

[@BuckarooBeatdown]

bubbacrabb That's what the dealer told me , was looking at buying a Tacoma because I want the manual gearbox and they offered me a Tundra.

[@bubbacrabb]

You guys are right. Apparently they make suv's down in Princeton now and the tundra in tx. Glad to know it's still American made:)

[@sparkscarz]

An OEM steering box would of been even tighter

[@richwood8538]

Am I naive to think increasing caster would eliminate this?

[@Sonos45]

These things will death wobble with less than 10k miles on them. How the hell has dodge not fixed the issue, and still sell's new trucks that do this.

[@dominique___1980]

Please come fix my 2004 Grand Cherokee death wobble.

[@danielrubio368]

Ford does the same

[@MrFakit]

7:20 Did you just refer to the driver's side aka left side as the right side?!?!?!?!?! . . . triggered :P

[@TheEZFix]

he kinna mixed it up

[@briansmobile1]

You caught that huh? I did too, but wanted sleep too bad to fix it. Thanks for keeping me honest. Sides are from sitting inside the vehicle facing forward.

[@briansmobile1]

I sure did. I should have caught it in post. I had a tough week. (you can tell by the lack of a Wednesday video) I messed up.

[@MrFakit]

Just yanking your chain, that Dodge seems too new to have steering problems already?

[@alanack67]

Borgson boxes are junk.

[@valde3336]

Play in the ball joints looks big enough that they would fail yearly safety inspection here in Finland.

[@briansmobile1]

It's unavoidable in a Ram 2500-3500 of that year. These are very good compared to most for vertical play. Lateral play was zero.

[@valde3336]

Yes. Some cars (including some Jeep, Chrysler, and Dodges) do have a special note that they can have a bit more vertical play (some up to 1mm). But for many Dodges and Chryslers you just have to change the joints very often.

[@999thenewman]

Valde333 Hello, have you played My Summer Car yet?

[@valde3336]

No. I’m not into games in general and my computer isn’t good enough to play it.

[@bbgdaddy5198]

Love the dodge trucks and actually have 2 of them but the steering sucks. Eventually Dodge will learn that if they correct their perpetual steering issues they will eliminate a whole crap load of trash talking about them. they are great trucks but only after you do all the de-bugging to them.

[@conradanderson404]

No....no they won't lol

[@conradanderson404]

How long did it take them to get rid of that shit 68rfe?

[@barrywhitaker969]

Great fix for a bad problem! Have you seen this product? ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqSonneXrddgpsk ) I have seen bolts egg out openings before. Once tough bushings are placed with better bolts then problems seem to go away.

[@sonnyastrom3024]

If you got a steering box, you just need to wake up and realize that it isnt 1930 anymore...

[@brad8665]

They're much more heavy duty than a rack and pinion, I prefer a box. Look under anything bigger than a pickup truck and you wont see a rack and pinion anywhere. i guarantee it.

[@moneymac2864]

Foist

[@jasonmushersee]

i don't know anyone that owns a dodge

[@jetjazz05]

+Marley Man LOL, I don't own a Dodge but damn they sell for cheap because they're junk. Bad motors, bad electrical, bad steering system, junk from conception to old age. Like I said though, cheap. I might be willing to own one as a beater if I felt like fixing it and it was a good price.

[@Garandmasthumb]

death wobble should be fixed by dodge

[@chengyang4722]

Poor cheap designs by truck.hahaha. never buy one.

[@moneymac2864]

Wow Dodge's interior still looks like garbage

[@DrDre001]

Money Mac this looks like an 06 design

[@FishFind3000]

423million can’t be on 06 if it’s got the 6.7... they had 5.9

[@briansmobile1]

It's a 2008MY with the 6.7

[@jibaritomx]

Dodge, Ford, Chevy owners never get tire fixing their junk..

[@paulcarlsen4088]

I used to buy American trucks. Not anymore. They're all garbage.

[@nkth6ars]

Does anybody else even make a truck that's not a toy?