STEERING / SUSPENSION — 1998.5–2002 DODGE RAM 5.9L CUMMINS (24-VALVE, VP44)

Cure play, wander, and “death wobble” while improving ride and control. CPP Diesel curates steering box braces, track bars, drag links/tie rods, steering stabilizers, control arms, shocks, and air-assist kits proven on 1998.5–2002 Ram 2500/3500 trucks.

Shop by Subcategory

• Steering Box Braces — CPP Steering Box Stabilizer (94–02 4x4), BD 1032004 (4WD), BD 1032002 (2WD).
• Steering Boxes — Steering Boxes (98.5–02 hub) — includes RedHead 2869 & other reman options.
• Track Bars — Track Bars (98.5–02 hub), CPP Extreme Duty Adjustable w/ Bracket (94–02), BD Adjustable Track Bar Kit (94–02).
• Drag Links / Tie Rods — 98.5–02 Drag Links & Tie Rods, Synergy 8568-02 Tie Rod (00–02).
• Steering Stabilizers — Stabilizers (98.5–02 hub), Daystar KU01021 (drop pitman).
• Control Arms — Control Arms (98.5–02 hub), Synergy 8551-04 Lower, Synergy 8553-01 Upper.
• Shocks (Ride & Control) — Shock Absorbers (98.5–02 hub), Bilstein 4600 Front (stock height), Bilstein 5100 Rear (3–5" lift).
• Air Suspension & On-Board Air — Air Suspension (98.5–02 hub), Firestone 2071 Ride-Rite, Pacbrake HP10019 Kit.
• Power Steering Pumps & Hoses — Borgeson 800328 Hi-Flow Pump and more on our Borgeson brand hub.
• Sway Bar Links — Sway Bar Links (98.5–02 hub).

Featured 98.5–02 Picks

• CPP Extreme Duty Adjustable Track Bar — fixes sloppy OE joint and recenters the axle.
• CPP Steering Box Stabilizer — braces the sector shaft to cut box flex.
• BD 1032004 SBS (4WD) / 1032002 (2WD) — quick bolt-on stability.
• Heavy-Duty Drag Link & Tie Rod Kits — reduce toe change & shimmy under load.
• Bilstein 4600 / 5100 — proven control for stock or lifted rides.
• Firestone 2071 Ride-Rite — level heavy loads and steady the rear.

Why Buy from CPP Diesel

• Second-Gen focus: Parts that package and align correctly on 1998.5–2002 chassis.
• Complete solutions: From steering gears and braces to shocks and air-assist, in one place.
• Expert support: We’ll help with toe/caster targets, joint choices, and install tips.
• Fast shipping: Popular 2nd-Gen components stocked and ready to go.

See all 98.5–2002 Cummins categories for complementary upgrades.

Helpful Notes

• Diagnosing wobble: Start with track bar joints/bushings, then drag link & tie rod ends, box play, and tire balance. A stabilizer calms shimmy but doesn’t fix loose joints.
• Alignment basics: Slight positive caster and a touch of toe-in improve straight-line stability on 2nd-Gen trucks.
• Brace selection: 4WD trucks use sector-shaft braces; 2WD braces differ—order accordingly.
• Shocks: Bilstein 4600 for stock-height control; Bilstein 5100 for leveled/lifted setups.
• Air-assist: Air springs flatten stance under load and reduce porpoising when towing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What actually causes “death wobble” on a 2nd-Gen Ram?

Usually a worn track bar joint/bushing or loose drag link/tie rod ends. A steering brace and good shocks help, but the root cause is typically play in those joints.

Do I need a steering box brace on my truck?

Highly recommended, especially with big tires. Use BD 1032004 for 4WD or 1032002 for 2WD, or our CPP brace for 4x4.

Which track bar should I choose?

For stock-height or mild lifts, the CPP Extreme Duty Adjustable Track Bar is a strong, serviceable option. Lifted trucks may prefer the BD kit with bracket.

What shocks work best for towing vs. off-road?

Bilstein 4600 is excellent for stock-height towing and daily use. Use Bilstein 5100 with leveling/lift kits to maintain travel and control.

Will heavy-duty tie rods fit my 2000–2002?

Yes—see Synergy 8568-02 for 00–02. (Early 98–99 trucks use 8568-03.)

Do air bags help with rear sway when towing?

Yes—air springs like Firestone 2071 or Pacbrake HP10019 level the load and stabilize the rear of the truck.