Three problems related to front suspension upper ball joint have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Ram 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Just had to replace upper ball joints on my 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. They have been making popping noised for over a year I just didn't have it checked out. I wrote because I heard of the upper ball joints going out on the durango and dakota. Anyway, I am out & $750. 00.
While driving the consumer heard a loud noise coming from the front of the vehicle. The consumer took the vehicle to the mechanic which informed the consumer that the upper ball joints wore out prematurely.
Had to replace the ball joints on my Dodge ram1500 at 50,000 miles, new programs have indicated Dodge is having problems with ball joints. I asked doge customer service if this is normal wear, they only said there are no major compaints with ball joints. It appears this maybe a very wide spread problem with Dodge.