1999 DODGE RAM wheel bolt torque

Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
Removal (Ram Pickup)
1) EVAP leak detection pump and EVAP leak detection pump
filter must be replaced as an assembly. EVAP leak detection pump and
EVAP leak detection pump filter are located at passenger's side front
corner of engine compartment, near wheelwell. See Fig. 41.
2) Disconnect hose from bottom of EVAP leak detection pump
filter that goes to EVAP leak detection pump. Remove retaining bolt
and EVAP leak detection pump filter.
3) Disconnect electrical connector and vacuum hoses at EVAP
leak detection pump. Use care not to damage vacuum hoses during
removal. Remove retaining bolts and EVAP leak detection pump.
NOTE: Vacuum hoses and hose to EVAP leak detection pump filter must
be properly installed on EVAP leak detection pump and all
hoses must be in good condition. If hoses are not properly
installed or are damaged, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)
will be set in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
Installation
1) Install EVAP leak detection and EVAP leak detection pump
filter. Tighten retaining bolts to specification. See TORQUE
SPECIFICATIONS.
2) To install remaining components, reverse removal
procedure. Ensure vacuum hoses and hose to EVAP leak detection pump
filter are in good condition and properly installed on EVAP leak
detection pump.
Removal (Ram Van & Ram Wagon)
1) EVAP leak detection pump and EVAP leak detection pump
filter must be replaced as an assembly. EVAP leak detection pump and
EVAP leak detection pump filter are located on mounting bracket at
driver's side of engine compartment, near the wheelwell. See Fig. 42.
2) Disconnect electrical connector and vacuum hoses at EVAP
purge solenoid. Use care not to damage vacuum hoses during removal.
Remove EVAP purge solenoid from mounting bracket. Disconnect
electrical connector and vacuum hoses at EVAP leak detection pump. Use
care not to damage vacuum hoses during removal.
3) Remove retaining bolts from mounting bracket. Remove
mounting bracket with EVAP leak detection pump and EVAP leak detection
pump filter as an assembly. Remove retaining bolts, EVAP leak
detection pump and EVAP leak detection pump filter from mounting
bracket.
NOTE: All vacuum hoses and hose to EVAP leak detection pump filter
must be properly installed on EVAP leak detection pump and
all hoses must be in good condition. If hoses are not
properly installed or are damaged, a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) will be set in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
Installation
1) Install EVAP leak detection and EVAP leak detection pump
filter on mounting bracket. Tighten retaining bolts to specification.
See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.
2) To install remaining components, reverse removal
procedure. Ensure vacuum hoses and hose to EVAP leak detection pump
filter are in good condition and properly installed.

STE ER IN G C O LU M N

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
1998-99 STEERING
CHRY - Steering Columns - Trucks & Vans
Caravan, Dakota, Durango, Ram Pickup, Ram Van/Wagon,
Town & Country, Voyager
WARNING: All models are equipped with Air Bag Restraint System (ABRS).
See AIR BAG PRECAUTIONS before working on vehicle. Use
caution when working around steering column (air bag could
deploy).
CAUTION: When battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory
systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist
until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See
COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION
before disconnecting battery.
DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
All models use collapsible steering columns with an integral
ignition switch and locking device. See Fig. 1. Optional tilt wheel is
available.
AIR BAG PRECAUTIONS
Follow precautions when working with air bag systems:
* When performing air bag repairs, disable ABRS. See AIR BAG
DISABLING.
* Use caution when handling a sensor. Never strike or jar a
sensor. All sensors or mounting bracket bolts must be
carefully torqued to ensure proper sensor operation.
* Never apply power to ABRS if a sensor is not rigidly attached
to vehicle.
* To avoid accidental air bag deployment while trouble shooting
ABRS, DO NOT use electrical test equipment, such as AC
-powered or battery-powered voltmeter, ohmmeter, etc.
* Always carry air bag module with trim cover away from body.
Always place inflatable module on workbench with trim cover
up, away from loose objects.
* DO NOT install used air bag parts from another vehicle. Use
NEW parts only. DO NOT disassemble or tamper with air bag
assembly.
* Wait at least 2 minutes after disconnecting battery before
proceeding with repairs or trouble shooting system. For a
short time after battery is disconnected, ABRS retains enough
voltage to deploy air bag.
NOTE: For additional information, see appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT
SYSTEMS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT section.
AIR BAG DISABLING
Disconnect and isolate negative battery cable. Disconnect 2-
way yellow clockspring harness connector, located on top of fuse block
between clockspring and instrument panel wiring harness. Clockspring
connector may also be disconnected at Air Bag System Diagnostic Module
(ASDM).

clockspring connector. Connect negative battery cable. On column shift
models, install NEW shift lever bushing using pliers and back-up
washer to snap bushing into place. Use a multipurpose grease to aid
installation.
6) Connect gearshift cable rod to shift lever by snapping rod
into bushing with pliers.
Fig. 1: Exploded View Of Steering Column (Typical)
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
OVERHAUL
NOTE: Steering column is not serviceable, except for trim, switches
and steering wheel. If service is required, replace column.
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS








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Application Ft. Lbs. (N.m)\
Steering Wheel Nut
Except Dakota ............................................ 45 (61)\
Dakota ................................................... 35 (47)\
Upper Coupler Bolt
Dakota, Ram Pickup & Ram Van/Wagon ....................... 36 (49)\
Caravan, Town & Country, & Voyager ....................... 20 (27)\
INCH Lbs. (N.m)
Steering Column-To-Instrument Panel Bracket Bolt/Nut
Except Dakota ........................................... 105 (12)\


STE ER IN G K NUCKLE S - 4 W D

1999 D odge P ic ku p R 1500
1998-99 DRIVE AXLES
CHRY - 4WD Steering Knuckles
Ram Pickup
DESCRIPTION
Open type steering knuckles are used on all models. Open type
knuckles provide sharper turning angle, decreasing turning radius.
Axle shafts are free floating. Steering knuckles are attached to axle
housing by ball joints.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
REMOVAL
1) Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheels. Remove brake
caliper, and support aside. DO NOT allow caliper to hang by brake
hose. On one ton models, remove adapter hub bolts and hub from rotor
and hub assembly. On all models, remove cotter pin from rotor and hub
nut.
2) Remove rotor and hub nut. Remove bolts securing rotor and
hub assembly to steering knuckle. Bolts are accessible from inboard
side of steering knuckle. Remove rotor and hub assembly. Remove hub
spacer from steering knuckle. Note spacer position for installation
reference.
3) Disconnect tie rod end and drag link studs. Remove anti-
lock brake sensor from steering knuckle. Remove ball joint cotter pins
and nuts. Discard lower nut. Using a soft-face hammer, tap steering
knuckle to free it from ball joints.
4) Clean all components with solvent, and dry with compressed
air. Inspect all parts for burrs, chips, wear, flat spots or cracks.
Replace all damaged or worn parts.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: When aligning upper ball joint nut to install cotter pin,
always tighten nut to align holes. Never loosen nut to align
holes.
1) Position steering knuckle on ball joints, and install NEW
lower ball joint nut. Tighten nut to specification. See TORQUE
SPECIFICATIONS. Install upper ball joint nut, and tighten to
specification. Tighten, DO NOT loosen, nut to install NEW cotter pin.
2) Install hub bearing and axle shaft. Connect drag link stud
to steering knuckle arm. Install retaining nut, and tighten to
specification. Install NEW cotter pin. Connect tie rod end stud to
steering knuckle arm. Install retaining nut and tighten to
specification. Install NEW cotter pin. Install anti-lock brake sensor
to steering knuckle.
3) Apply anti-seize compound to splines of front drive axle.
Inspect hub grease seal and wheel bearing. Replace as necessary. From
rear of steering knuckle, install 2 rearward rotor and hub assembly
bolts in steering knuckle.
4) Apply chassis grease to hub spacer to secure on steering
knuckle. Position spacer on rotor and hub assembly bolts. Ensure
spacer is installed with flat edge toward rear of vehicle. Apply
Loctite to rotor and hub assembly bolt threads. Install rotor and hub

assembly to steering knuckle. Finger tighten bolts. Install 2
remaining rotor and hub assembly bolts. Tighten all bolts to
specification.
5) Install rotor and hub nut. Tighten nut to specification.
See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. Install cotter pin. On one ton models,
install adapter hub bolts and hub to rotor and hub assembly. Install
brake caliper, and tighten bolts to specification. Install wheels, and
tighten lug nuts to specification.
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS








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Application (1) Ft. Lbs. (N.m)
ABS Sensor Bolt ............................................ 15 (11)\
Brake Caliper Bolt ......................................... 38 (52)\
Drag Link Nut .............................................. 65 (88)\
Hub-To-Steering Knuckle Bolt ..................... 125-160 (170-217)\
Lower Ball Joint Nut
216 FBI ................................................. 80 (108)\
248 FBI ........................................ 140-160 (190-217)\
Rotor & Hub Nut .................................. 160-200 (217-271)\
Shock Absorber Lower Bolt ................................ 100 (136)\
Stabilizer Bar Bolt ........................................ 27 (37)\
Tie Rod-To-Steering Knuckle Nut ............................ 65 (88)\
Upper Ball Joint Nut
216 FBI ................................................. 75 (102)\
248 FBI .................................................. 70 (94)\
Wheel Lug Nuts .................................... 95-145 (130-195)\
( 1) - Front axles can be identified by differential cover. The 216 FBI
has rounded edges, the 248 FBI has flat angled edges.









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Removal
1) Place wheels in straight-ahead position. Place drain pan
under steering gear assembly. Disconnect and cap pressure and return
hoses from steering gear. Disconnect steering column shaft coupling
from steering gear stub shaft.
2) Raise and support vehicle. Disconnect steering linkage
(center link) from pitman arm. See Fig. 9. Disconnect stabilizer bar
(if necessary). Place reference mark on pitman arm and sector shaft.
Remove nut and pitman arm from sector shaft. Remove steering gear-to-
frame bolts. Remove steering gear.
Installation
1) Install steering gear with bolts finger tight. Center
steering gear and align stub shaft with steering column. Install
steering column shaft coupling bolt and tighten to specification. See
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.
CAUTION: Stake pitman arm nut against pitman arm to ensure proper
retention.
2) Reposition steering gear to eliminate binding, and tighten
bolts to specification. Install pitman arm on sector shaft with
reference marks aligned. Install lock washer and nut. Tighten nut to
specification.
3) To install remaining components, reverse removal
procedure. Fill pump reservoir. Bleed air from hydraulic system. See
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING under LUBRICATION.
SECTOR SHAFT OIL SEAL
Removal
1) Raise and support vehicle. Place wheels in straight-ahead
position. Disconnect steering linkage (center link) from pitman arm.
Disconnect stabilizer bar (if necessary).
2) Place reference mark on pitman arm and sector shaft.
Remove nut and pitman arm from sector shaft. Place drain pan under
steering gear. Remove retaining ring and steel washer. See Fig. 1.
CAUTION: DO NOT hold steering wheel in left-turn position for more
than 2 seconds.
3) Start engine and momentarily hold steering wheel in
extreme left-turn position. When pressure develops, this should force
upper oil seal, steel washer and lower oil seal from steering gear
housing. Stop engine and remove seals.
Installation
1) Ensure seal bore of steering gear is free of burrs and
sector shaft is free of pitting or roughness. Lubricate replacement
seals and steel washers with power steering fluid.
2) Wrap sector shaft with plastic tape or .005" (.13 mm)
thick shim stock. Install upper oil seal (single lip seal) and steel
washer first. Oil seal must be installed only deep enough to allow for
remaining oil seal, steel washer and retaining ring.
CAUTION: DO NOT install upper oil seal against inner bore surface of
steering gear housing. Oil seals must be installed so each
oil seal is separately seated in shaft bore.
3) Install lower oil seal (double lip seal) and steel washer\
.
Oil seal must be installed only deep enough to allow for steel washer
and retaining ring. Remove tape or shim stock and install retaining
ring.

pitman arm. Remove drag link. To install, reverse removal procedure.
Tighten nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. Install
cotter pins.
IDLER ARM
Removal & Installation
Remove cotter pin and nut from idler arm. Separate idler arm
from center link. Remove idler arm bolts. Remove idler arm. To
install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten bolts to specification.
See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. Install NEW cotter pin.
PITMAN ARM
Removal & Installation
1) Remove cotter pin and nut at pitman arm-to-center link or
drag link. Separate pitman arm from center link or drag link. Mark
location of pitman arm on steering gear shaft. Remove pitman arm-to-
steering gear shaft nut. Separate pitman arm from steering gear.
CAUTION: Stake pitman arm nut against steering gear shaft to ensure
proper retention.
2) To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure reference
marks are aligned. Tighten bolts and nuts to specification. Install
NEW cotter pin.
TIE ROD END
Removal
Remove cotter pin and nut from tie rod end. Using Tie Rod End
Puller (C-3894-A), remove tie rod end from steering knuckle or center
link. Loosen lock nut or clamp bolt. Remove tie rod end. Note number
of turns required for removal.
NOTE: Use Tie Rod End Puller (C-3894-A) to prevent tie rod end seal\
damage.
Installation
1) To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure tie rod end
is installed at same location. Position clamp sleeve with bolt located
on bottom. Clamp opening should be aligned with slot in sleeve.
2) Tighten the tie rod end nut to specification. Install a
NEW cotter pin. Check and adjust toe-in. See appropriate
SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT. Tighten clamp
bolt to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.
OVERHAUL
POWER STEERING PUMP OVERHAUL
Only fluid reservoirs, caps, pulleys, "O" rings, seals and
flow control valve are replaceable on pump. See Figs. 7 and 8.
Internal components are non-serviceable. If internal components fail,
replace pump. Replace reservoir, or "O" ring and seals if damaged.
NOTE: If expansion plug is deformed or dislodged, DO NOT remove it.
Replace pump housing.
STEERING GEAR OVERHAUL

WHEEL ALIGNMENT
NOTE: See appropriate SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL
ALIGNMENT.
WHEEL BEARING ADJUSTMENT
1) Tighten wheel bearing adjusting nut to 30-40 ft. lbs. (41-\
54 N.m) while rotating wheel. Stop rotation, and back off adjusting
nut to release all preload. Retighten nut finger tight.
2) Ensure bearing end play is .001-.003" (.025-.076 mm).
Install nut lock and cotter pin. Coat grease cap inside lightly with
grease, and install cap.
BALL JOINT CHECKING
Ball joints are preloaded. Replace lower ball joint if
vertical movement exceeds .03" (.8 mm). Replace upper ball joint if
movement exceeds .03" (.8 mm).
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
COIL SPRING
Removal
1) Raise vehicle, and position safety stands under frame.
Remove wheels. Remove brake caliper retainer and brake caliper (if
necessary). Support caliper aside. Disconnect tie rod from steering
knuckle.
2) Disconnect stabilizer bar link from lower control arm. See
Fig. 1 . Support lower suspension arm outboard end with jack. Place
jack under arm in front of shock mount. Remove cotter pin and nut from
lower ball joint stud. Using Ball Joint Breaker (C-4150A), separate
ball joint from steering knuckle.
3) Remove lower shock bolt from suspension arm. Lower jack
and suspension arm until spring tension is relieved. Remove spring and
rubber isolator.
Installation
1) Install rubber isolator on top of spring. Position spring
between upper spring seat and lower suspension arm. Raise suspension
arm with jack, and position shock into suspension arm mount.
2) Install shock bolt and tighten to specification. See
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Install steering knuckle on lower ball
joint stud. Install lower ball joint stud nut and tighten. See TORQUE
SPECIFICATIONS table. Replace cotter pin, and remove jack. Install
stabilizer bar link on lower suspension arm. Install grommet, retainer
and nut.
3) Install tie rod on steering knuckle, and tighten nut to 65
ft. lbs. (88 N.m). Install brake caliper assembly and rotor. Install
tire and wheel assembly. Remove support, and lower vehicle.
STEERING KNUCKLE
Removal & Installation
1) Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheel and tire assembly.
Remove brake caliper. Remove wheel hub and bearing assembly from
spindle.
2) Remove cotter pin and nut from tie-rod end, and disconnect
tie rod. Remove cotter pins and nut from upper and lower ball joint