Three problems related to steering linkages have been reported for the 1998 Dodge Ram 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Lower steering column separated from the upper steering column. Upon inspection bolt on the universal joint of the lower steering column, bolt was never seated properly from the factory. It was cross threaded in the aluminum u joint. The bolt was never seated all the way, there is black paint on the bolt were this is evident.
3500 at 45 mph. If truck hits a pot hole or other road deflection steering wheel will shake from left to right 4" each way and continue until you slow to 15 mph. Shake is violent and driver can only go straigth as wheel will not turn. A bad thing in a curve.
Steering bushing collar failed. Mjs.