Steering
Repair
Gear box, power steering, linkage, and alignment — CTR provides complete steering system service for all commercial vehicle brands. Precision diagnosis with measurement tools, not guesswork.
Steering Repair Experts
Steering failure on an 80,000-pound vehicle is a catastrophic safety risk. CTR diagnoses steering problems with precision measurement tools — dial indicators at every linkage joint, steering wheel play gauges for DOT compliance, and hydraulic flow meters for power steering testing.
We service all major steering gear brands — Sheppard, TRW/ZF (Bosch), Ross — across every commercial vehicle platform. From tie rod end replacement to complete steering system overhauls, with alignment included on every linkage repair.
Located on Armentrout Drive directly off I-85 at Exit 58. All repairs backed by our 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty.
Precision Diagnosis
Dial indicators, play gauges, flow meters — measurement, not guesswork.
3-Year, 36K Warranty
Industry-leading warranty on all steering repairs.
All Gear Brands
Sheppard, TRW/ZF (Bosch), Ross — every platform.
Alignment Included
Steer axle alignment with every linkage repair.
Complete Steering Repair Services
From linkage to gear box to power steering. Click any service for details.
Sheppard, TRW/ZF (Bosch), and Ross gear box diagnosis. Internal seal failure, excessive backlash, and complete replacement when warranted.
Warning Signs of Steering Problems
Excessive Steering Wheel Play
Turning the wheel before tires respond. FMCSA limits free play based on wheel diameter — out-of-service if exceeded.
Steering Wander at Highway Speed
Truck drifts side to side requiring constant correction. Typically worn linkage or king pins.
Hard Steering / Increased Effort
Increased effort to turn, especially at low speeds. Usually power steering pump or fluid issues.
Groaning or Whining When Turning
Low power steering fluid or failing pump. Noise typically worse at low RPM.
Clunking Sounds During Steering
Metallic clunking indicates worn linkage ball joints. Each clunk is metal-on-metal wear.
Uneven Steer Tire Wear
Rapid or uneven front tire wear. Steering play and misalignment are leading causes.
Steering Repair Cost Guide
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Tie Rod End Replacement | $200–$500 per end |
| Drag Link Replacement | $300–$800 |
| Pitman Arm Replacement | $200–$500 |
| Power Steering Pump | $300–$1,500+ |
| Steering Gear Box | $1,000–$3,000+ |
| Complete Steering Overhaul | $2,000–$5,000+ |
Alignment included with all linkage repairs. Written estimates before work begins.
Steering System Flow
Steering Wheel
Driver input
Column & Shaft
Rotary transfer via U-joints
Steering Gear Box
Hydraulic-assisted conversion to linear motion
Pitman Arm
Connects gear output to drag link
Drag Link
Transfers motion to steer knuckle
Tie Rod
Synchronizes both steer knuckles
Steering Knuckles
Pivot on king pins to turn wheels
Steering & DOT Inspection
Steering violations are treated seriously by DOT enforcement because steering failure at highway speed is a catastrophic safety risk. CTR verifies every steering component meets FMCSA requirements during repair and PM service.
Steering Wheel Play
Must not exceed FMCSA lash limits for wheel diameter. For 18" wheel with power steering: approximately 4.5" max at rim.
Linkage Components
Tie rod ends, drag link, pitman arm — no visible looseness, play, or missing hardware (cotter pins, castle nuts).
Steering Gear Box
Secure mounting, no excessive leaks, internal backlash within specification.
Power Steering System
Adequate fluid level, no visible leaks, belt condition acceptable, proper function verified.
Built for Heavy Duty
CTR's facility on Armentrout Drive has the bay space, alignment equipment, and precision measurement tools for complete steering system service on any commercial vehicle.
Fleet Steering Programs
Steering inspection in every PM service — play measurement, linkage inspection, power steering fluid check, tire wear pattern analysis. Track measurements to catch trends before DOT violations.
(704) 786-0132
Steering Repair Near You
CTR Heavy Duty — Concord
Directly off Interstate 85 at Exit 58. Easy truck access.
Also serving: