Investigation PE87037: 1979–1987 Dodge RAM 50

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jul 1, 1987

Closed

Nov 3, 1987

Model years

1979–1987

Subject

Pitman arm failure

Component: Steering

Summary

Summary of information from manufacturer:both chrysler and mitsubishiindependently concluded that the failures were due to severe impact loadingtransmitted to the shaft by the steering linkage system -- in other wordsshaft failure is the result, not the cause, of the alleged collisioncircumstances.mitsubishi did strengthen the shaft during the 1984 modelyear by increasing the spline and bearing journal diameters.analysis:failing component is the steering box cross shaft (output shaft)which breaks between the bottom bearing in the steering box and the pitmanarm.known failures involve 4 wheel drive units equipped with powersteering.cross shaft and pitman arm sales are considerably higher on 4wheel drive units than 2 wheel drive units.chrysler reports the crossshaft diameter was increased in april, 1984, for increased shaft strengthto improve its capability to withstand severe impact loads.proposed action:upgrade this pe to an ea.contact mitsubishi forinformation on comparable vehicles.===

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 1987 Dodge RAM 509 complaints