2004.5-2007 Dodge 5.9L Cummins Steering Boxes

The steering box on the 2004.5-2007 Ram 5.9L Cummins

Third-gen 4x4s use a Delphi recirculating-ball steering box, which replaced the Saginaw box on the second-gen trucks. The box turns the pitman arm, and the pitman arm drives the factory Y-type linkage. Hydraulic assist comes from the power steering pump, and that same pump feeds the hydro-boost brake assist. That matters when you diagnose: a box with play feels loose, while low pump output feels heavy and comes with a hard brake pedal.

What fails and why

The Delphi gear on 2003-2009 trucks has known reliability issues: sector-shaft play and an unsupported output shaft. Symptoms are play at the wheel and wander, and steering box replacement shows up in complaint data on high-mileage trucks. A worn box is also one of the parts that can feed death wobble, alongside the track bar, tie rod ends and ball joints. Before you condemn the box, check the linkage. Y-type tie rod ends wear out too, with wander and play documented around 150,000 miles or ten years.

Stock replacement vs. upgrade

A new replacement box takes the worn one out of the equation. Upgraded boxes for 2003-2008 4WD trucks are also made, and they are listed separately from the 1994-2002 boxes, so make sure any box you buy is listed for 2003-2008 4WD. XDP's XD750 Stock+ is a new unit listed for these trucks. Whichever way you go, set the alignment afterward: the preferred numbers for a 2003+ 4x4 are toe at 0 degrees, camber 0 plus or minus 0.20 and caster 4.0-4.5 degrees positive.

What we carry

The XDP XD750 Stock+ Power Steering Gearbox, sold new, listed for 2003-2008 5.9L and 6.7L Cummins with 4WD. The BD Diesel 1032003 Steering Box Stabilizer, listed for 2003-2018 Cummins trucks, is an add-on for the box itself; read its listing for how it mounts. Pumps, fluid and linkage parts are on the steering page for this truck.

Fitment notes

The XDP box is listed for 4WD trucks, so 2WD owners need to confirm fitment before ordering. The 2007 model year includes both 5.9L and 6.7L trucks; this page is for the 5.9L, so go by the engine. Swapping a box means pulling the pitman arm, and a stuck arm often needs heat or impact after a wire brush, brake cleaner and penetrating oil. Verify by VIN, and see the Cummins hub for the rest of the platform.

Frequently asked questions

How do I tell if my steering box is worn?

Play at the wheel and wander are the common signs on the Delphi box. Rule out the tie rod ends and track bar first, since they wear too and cause the same complaints. If the linkage is tight and the play is still there, the box is the next suspect.

Does the BD steering box stabilizer replace the box?

No. It is an add-on for the steering box, listed for 2003-2018 Cummins trucks. If your box is already worn, replace the box; the stabilizer does not undo wear.

Will a steering box from a 2001 Ram fit my 2006?

Do not count on it. Boxes for 2003-2008 4WD trucks are listed separately from 1994-2002 boxes, and the third-gen trucks use a Delphi box where the second-gen used a Saginaw. Order by your truck's year and drivetrain.

Not sure what fits? Call the shop at the number in the header, or use the fitment checker on any product page. We install everything we sell.