2000 Dodge Dakota steering wheel seems loose and has poppin

KANDERS

MEMBER
2000 DODGE DAKOTA
V8
4WD
MANUAL
137,000 MILES

I can turn my steering wheel 1/2"to 1" in each direction without the wheels turning and I can feel it is not engaged with the wheels. Also when I turn hard in either direction there is a popping/snapping feeling in the steering wheel. This is felt when turning the wheel and when returning it to the original position. Any idea what this could be.

1 Reply

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

Here's the tech bulliten on your truck for this problem:
POP SENSATION/NOISE IN STEERING COLUMN WHEN TURNING TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN Reference Number(s): 19-05-99, � Date of Issue: � July 23, 1999 Related Ref Number(s): 19-05-99 ARTICLE BEGINNING POPPING SENSATION/NOISE IN STEERING COLUMN WHILE TURNING Model(s): 1997-2000 Dodge (AN) Dakota 1998-2000 Dodge (DN) Durango Group: Steering Bulletin No: 19-05-99 Date: July 23, 1999 OVERVIEW This bulletin involves repositioning the steering column on the steering column mounting brackets. SYMPTOM/CONDITION A popping sensation/noise can be felt and/or heard in the steering column during sharp turns (parking lot maneuvers). DIAGNOSIS Start the engine. Rotate the steering wheel to the extreme right and then to the extreme left while monitoring for a popping noise or sensation. If a popping noise or sensation can be heard and/or felt in the steering column while turning, perform the REPAIR PROCEDURE. REPAIR PROCEDURE This repair is compatible with DaimlerChrysler's Mobile Service Program and does not require hoists or other full service facility special equipment. Start the engine. 1. Rotate the steering wheel so that the steering wheel is in an upside down position then remove the ignition key to lock the steering wheel in this position. 2. Remove the three screws that secure the lower edge of the steering column opening cover to the lower instrument panel reinforcement. 3. Using a trim stick or another suitable wide-bladed tool, gently pry the upper edge of the steering column opening cover. Pry just below the cluster bezel on each side of the steering 4. Column away from the instrument panel far enough to disengage the snap clip retainers from the receptacles in the instrument panel. Remove the steering column opening cover from the instrument panel. 5. Loosen the steering column attaching nuts. 6. Bounce the steering wheel lightly in a vertical motion to normalize the alignment. 7. Without influencing the new location of the steering column, tighten the passenger side rearward nut to 12 N.M (105 in-lbs.). 8. Next, tighten the front driver side nut to 12 N.M (105 in-lbs.). 9. Tighten the remaining steering column attaching nuts to 12 N.M (105 in-lbs.). 10. Tighten the upper intermediate shaft attachment bolt to 57 N.M (42 ft-lbs.). 11. Position the steering column opening cover to the instrument panel. 12. Align the snap clip retainers on the steering column opening cover with the receptacles in the instrument panel. 13. Press firmly on the steering column opening cover over the snap clip locations until each of the snap clips is fully engaged in its receptacle. 14. Install and tighten the three screws that secure the lower edge of the steering column opening cover to the lower instrument panel reinforcement. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N.M (20 in-lbs.). 15. Start the engine then, rotate the steering wheel back to its normal position. 16.