Red head gear box works awesome
"Replaced my 2014 ram 2500 steering gearbox with a red head and completely changed my truck handling. Now it tight and smooth. Love it!"
Cummins
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SKU #: RH-2881
MPN #: 2881
Red-Head Steering Gear Box 09-20 Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500 RH2881
Description
These steering boxes are built in Washington state and offer unmatched steering control and longevity. We have personally run several brands and have had the best results to date with the Red-Head. This gearbox allows you to retain the factory steering shaft, as well as the stock pitman arm. This is a major advantage especially those with lifted trucks with dropped pitman arms, as you will not have to change your pitman arm.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
This gearbox features a 6-bolt top cover.The 2009-2012 model years typically featured a 4 bolt top cover, but this 6 bolt is interchangeable even with the 4-bolt factory cover.
You have the option for us to include a pre-paid return label with the shipment for ease of returning your core. With this option, you will merely need to drop the re-packaged core with the accompanying shipping label at a FedEx drop-off. Otherwise, it will be your responsibility to supply your means of returning the core. Pre-paid return label option is only applicable to the lower 48 contiguous United States. Please contact us if you have any questions. Cores with broken shafts or cases will receive partial or no core refund.
If Gearbox is going on a Power Wagon you must determine if you have a 3 turn to lock or 4 turn to lock. If 4 turn to lock please call in for order.
EVIDENCE: If you'd like additional third-party evidence as to what goes into a Red-Head gearbox and how much of an impact it will make in your driving experience, check out a detailed review by acclaimed Turbo Diesel Register editor, Doug Leno, below.
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About WrenchConnected
WrenchConnected is an independent installation marketplace operating in partnership with Diesel Power Products.
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FEATURES & BENEFITS:
- 12 Month Warranty
- Built in the USA
- Housings are machined out and replaced with needle bearings
- Shafts are flame sprayed or replaced as needed
- New control valves installed on some applications
- Worm and piston assembly are custom fit with special ordered, precise oversized ball bearings
- Sector shafts are installed on a lathe to confirm they are straight and true
- Sealing surface is polished to avoid any leaks
IMPORTANT FITMENT NOTE:
- This gearbox will not fit models with electronic steering assist.
About Red-Head Steering Gears Inc.
Browse Red Head Steering Gears Online by Make, Model, and Year.
One of the most prevalent issues with heavy duty, diesel powered trucks, especially as they accrue some miles, is sloppy steering. And its no wonder, most of us install larger tires, haul a considerable amount of weight, periodically use them offroad, and even put snowplows on the front. All of these put considerable stress on your steering components. All of those stresses coupled with the fact that the OEM steering gears, or basically anything you find at your local parts store, could be considered absolute garbage means that the majority of us are driving around with loose, wandering steering that must be constantly corrected in order to keep the truck in your lane. That is, unless youve upgraded your Cummins, Powerstroke, or Duramax with a Redhead!
Red-Head Steering Gears was founded in 1981 by Seattle area automotive entrepreneur, Warren Foster, who also founded Foster's Service in Georgetown, WA (now Foster's Frame & Axle) and T 'n' W Pumps in Georgetown, WA (now Foster & Snyder in Pingree, ND).
The business was purchased by Tom Foster and then Harvey Foster, both nephews of Warren. Tom is now retired in Arizona. Harvey moved to Seattle in 1979 to go to work for Warren in his frame and axle business. This knowledge of front ends has been very helpful in diagnosing steering problems.
Harvey worked at the frame and axle shop for 6 1/2 years before joining Tom at Red-Head. Harvey has built and tested between 43,000 and 47,000 steering gears in the past 21 years. This business has had and continues to have a number of other great employees, all family members.
Why we carry Red Head Steering Gears.....
As anybody that deals with us on a regular basis knows already...we want the best for our customers. As most people with a Dodge truck realize, the stock steering gear box leaves a lot to be desired. It was no different on our 2005 Dodge (3 gearboxes in the first 25,000 miles) or our 2007 Dodge (3 gearboxes in 75,000 miles). We have been searching for the answer to the gearbox dilemma and after testing a few other aftermarket boxes have settled on Red Head as being the best. Steering is smooth, effortless AND they are built to last. But it doesn't stop with upgraded Dodge boxes, they build upgraded boxes for nearly every application and we've had nothing but positive feedback on every unit. Red Head gets our Seal of Approval!
EVIDENCE:
If you'd like additional third party evidence as to what goes into a Red-Head gear box or why this is the best gear box for your truck, and how much of an impact it will really make in your driving experience, check out a detailed review by acclaimed Turbo Diesel Register editor, Doug Leno.
Red-Head Steering Gears was founded in 1981 by Seattle area automotive entrepreneur, Warren Foster, who also founded Foster's Service in Georgetown, WA (now Foster's Frame & Axle) and T 'n' W Pumps in Georgetown, WA (now Foster & Snyder in Pingree, ND).
The business was purchased by Tom Foster and then Harvey Foster, both nephews of Warren. Tom is now retired in Arizona. Harvey moved to Seattle in 1979 to go to work for Warren in his frame and axle business. This knowledge of front ends has been very helpful in diagnosing steering problems.
Harvey worked at the frame and axle shop for 6 1/2 years before joining Tom at Red-Head. Harvey has built and tested between 43,000 and 47,000 steering gears in the past 21 years. This business has had and continues to have a number of other great employees, all family members.
Why we carry Red Head Steering Gears.....
As anybody that deals with us on a regular basis knows already...we want the best for our customers. As most people with a Dodge truck realize, the stock steering gear box leaves a lot to be desired. It was no different on our 2005 Dodge (3 gearboxes in the first 25,000 miles) or our 2007 Dodge (3 gearboxes in 75,000 miles). We have been searching for the answer to the gearbox dilemma and after testing a few other aftermarket boxes have settled on Red Head as being the best. Steering is smooth, effortless AND they are built to last. But it doesn't stop with upgraded Dodge boxes, they build upgraded boxes for nearly every application and we've had nothing but positive feedback on every unit. Red Head gets our Seal of Approval!
EVIDENCE:
If you'd like additional third party evidence as to what goes into a Red-Head gear box or why this is the best gear box for your truck, and how much of an impact it will really make in your driving experience, check out a detailed review by acclaimed Turbo Diesel Register editor, Doug Leno.
Video
Deferred Core Program Explanation
Ben explains the benefits of our deferred core program and how to return your core when necessary. Not sure what that is or need to send your core back? Give this video a watch for information and answers to many FAQ's.
If you’d like more information on our core return policy or need to start the core return process just give us a call at 1-888-993-4373.
Video
Product Overview: Red-Head Steering Gear Box
While making great power and torque, diesel pick-up trucks are not usually known for their stellar handling. You can make it fast, and pull lots of weight, but if you can’t properly pilot your truck, it does you no good. Red Head Steering Gears set the bar for the industry and continues to be a leader. Give your white knuckles a rest and make the right choice when it comes time to replace your worn steering box.
Video
Boost It | Red-Head Steering Gear Box
Upgrade your rig with a Red-Head replacement steering gear box! Unlike typical rebuilt boxes, Red-Head offers unmatched steering control and longevity, handcrafted in Washington state. Retain your factory steering shaft and pitman arm—especially beneficial for lifted trucks. Opt for hydraulic steering assist ports for future upgrades. We offer a convenient pre-paid return label option for core returns within the lower 48 states.
Video
Diesel Talk | Red-Head Steering Gear Boxes
Tired of sloppy steering? Red-Head Steering Boxes are precision-built for tighter steering, better control, and a smoother ride. Whether youre daily driving, towing, or hitting the trails, these boxes deliver unmatched durability and performance.
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Overall rating: 4.5833335 / 5 from 24 reviews.
AI Generated Review Summary
Summary topics
Review topics: ["improvement","box","steering","shipping","issues","works"].
Review highlights
Reviews
Death wobble
"I figured it would fix my death wobble but it did not"
Red-Head steering gear
"works great"
WAHOO!!!!
"So far so good. The OEM steering gear box didn't last very long in my truck and after a whole lot of researching, the red head was the definite choice to go with."
Great
"So far so good but we UK date in a year"
Still holding up good !
"Still holding up good ! Been a year now, would highly recommend"
Box worked well no more
"Box worked well no more slop and the defer core option diesel power products offers is awesome really helped me I will buy all expensive parts that require a core charge from them in the future"
Great one! You can feel
"Great one! You can feel the difference between stock and redhead! Much more control either highway or offroad! The only problem i got is that mine was leaking, i was a default item, but i am sure RedHead will solve it. Besides this, great product higly recommended"
It seems a little loose
"It seems a little loose but works OK."
Redhead for the win
"Sweet relief is what comes to mind after installing this steering box and driving a few hundred miles. I have been struggling with loose shifty/ sloppy steering issues for the last year. You can imagine my frustration after replacing EVERYTHING on the front end a year ago (Carli ball joints, skf bearings, u joints, Mopar steering linkage, Borg intermediate shaft, oh and a "brand new" Borg steering box) And after all that I literally couldn't put my camper on the truck or tow because of the lack of control. A year of this went by with tweaks, checks, valve lash adjustment with no improvement. Recieved redhead steering box, packaged well and installed with no issues other than these boxes are not light. Bled air out as per instructions and it honestly feels like I'm driving my truck for the first time. Everything is so tight and solid. Thank you redhead for making this product and taking the time to do it right, so greatful."
Q&A
- Don't see a steering for 2021 ram 2500. Will this work as well
- If your truck currently has the 3 Turn gearbox, this one will be the correct replacement.
- how much "Dead space" does your gear box have. I have just replaced my steering gear box and I still have about 2 inches of turning the steering wheel before the gear box output moves.
- This gear box should arrive tight and with no "dead space". If your new gear box is loose you can reach out to Red Head for a potential warranty claim.
- Will Redhead take a 4 bolt for a core without additional charges? If there are additional core charges, how much?
- This steering gear box fits on 09-20 trucks and will need a core from an 09-20. If you have an 03-08 truck and want to do the conversion you can return your 4 bolt box for the full core charge but you will need this kit: https://www.dieselpowerproducts.com/p-17123-red-head-extreme-duty-steering-gear-box-03-08-dodge-ram-2500-3500.aspx
- I need a steering gear box for 2017 Ram 4500 6.7 diesel engine, cab chassis 4x4. do you have one that fits my vehicle?
- Unfortunately no, we do not have a gear box for that application. -Sands
- I have a 2014 Ram 3500 4x4 Cab and Chassis model. Will this work as a replacement?
- Yes it would still work as a replacement on that application. Just not the 4500/5500 trucks. -Sands