The APDTY 536374 Upper & Lower Intermediate Steering Shaft with Coupler is a direct-replacement steering component designed for 4WD Dodge Dakota (1997-1999) and Dodge Durango (1998-1999) trucks. This assembly connects the steering column to the steering gearbox, and when the original rag joint or shaft wears out, drivers experience clunking noises, steering play, or imprecise handling. APDTY 536374 restores tight, responsive steering by replacing the entire upper and lower intermediate shaft and coupler in one assembly.
Key Takeaways
- APDTY 536374 is a complete upper and lower intermediate steering shaft with rag joint coupler for 4WD applications only
- Fits 1997-1999 Dodge Dakota 4WD and 1998-1999 Dodge Durango 4WD—verify your exact year and model before ordering
- Replaces OE part numbers 55351171AG, 55351171AE, 55351171AA, 55351171AB, 55351171AC, and 55351171AD
- Eliminates common steering symptoms: clunking over bumps, steering wheel play, and loose or vague steering feel
- Brand-new assembly ready to install; does not require separate purchase of upper shaft, lower shaft, or coupler
Buy APDTY 536374 directly from APDTY
What Is the Intermediate Steering Shaft and What Does It Do?
The intermediate steering shaft is the mechanical link between your steering column (where the steering wheel attaches) and the steering gearbox or rack at the front axle. In 4WD Dodge Dakota and Durango trucks, this shaft consists of two sections—upper and lower—connected by a flexible rag joint or universal joint coupler. This design allows the shaft to telescope and flex as the suspension moves and the steering angle changes.
The rag joint coupler absorbs vibration and compensates for slight misalignment between the column and gearbox. Over time, the rubber disc inside the rag joint deteriorates, the splines wear, and the u-joint bearings develop play. When this happens, steering input from the wheel is no longer transmitted crisply to the gearbox, resulting in play, clunking, and imprecise handling.
APDTY 536374 replaces the entire intermediate steering shaft assembly—both upper and lower sections plus the coupler—in one installation, ensuring all wear points are renewed at once.
What Are the Symptoms of a Worn Intermediate Steering Shaft?
A failing intermediate steering shaft announces itself through several clear symptoms:
- Clunking or knocking noise from the steering column area when turning the wheel or driving over bumps, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers
- Excessive steering wheel play—you can rotate the wheel slightly before the front wheels begin to turn
- Loose or vague steering feel, requiring constant correction to keep the truck tracking straight
- Vibration or shudder felt through the steering wheel, particularly on rough roads
- Visible wear or separation in the rag joint coupler if you inspect under the dash or at the firewall
These symptoms often worsen gradually. Left unaddressed, a severely worn shaft can separate entirely, resulting in complete loss of steering control. If you notice any of these signs, inspect the intermediate steering shaft and replace it promptly.
Which Vehicles Does APDTY 536374 Fit?
APDTY 536374 is engineered specifically for 4-wheel drive models only of the following Dodge trucks:
| Year | Make | Model | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | Dodge | Dakota | 4WD |
| 1998 | Dodge | Dakota | 4WD |
| 1999 | Dodge | Dakota | 4WD |
| 1998 | Dodge | Durango | 4WD |
| 1999 | Dodge | Durango | 4WD |
Important: This part is designed for 4WD trucks only. It will not fit 2WD (two-wheel drive) Dakota or Durango models, which use a different shaft configuration. Always verify your vehicle's year, make, model, and drive type using the compatibility chart on the product page before ordering. If your truck is not listed above, this part will not fit.
What OE Part Numbers Does APDTY 536374 Replace?
APDTY 536374 is a direct replacement for the following original-equipment (OE) Mopar part numbers:
- 55351171AG
- 55351171AE
- 55351171AA
- 55351171AB
- 55351171AC
- 55351171AD
If your Dodge dealer or repair order references any of these part numbers, APDTY 536374 is the correct replacement. This cross-reference ensures you receive the exact fit and function of the factory steering shaft assembly.
APDTY 536374 Specifications and Features
| Part Number | APDTY 536374 |
| Component Type | Upper & Lower Intermediate Steering Shaft with Rag Joint Coupler |
| Application | 4WD Only |
| Condition | Brand New |
| Fitment | 1997-1999 Dodge Dakota 4WD, 1998-1999 Dodge Durango 4WD |
| OE Replacement Numbers | 55351171AG, 55351171AE, 55351171AA, 55351171AB, 55351171AC, 55351171AD |
| Includes | Complete upper shaft, lower shaft, and coupler assembly |
This assembly arrives ready to install—no need to purchase separate upper or lower shafts or couplers. The rag joint coupler features a durable rubber disc and precision-machined splines for long service life and smooth operation.
How Do You Install the Intermediate Steering Shaft?
Replacing the intermediate steering shaft is a straightforward procedure for DIYers with basic hand tools and mechanical experience. Safety first: Park the vehicle on level ground, set the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery cable before beginning work on any steering component.
General installation steps include:
- Access the shaft: Working from inside the cab and under the vehicle, locate the upper and lower sections of the intermediate shaft. You may need to remove the lower dash panel or knee bolster for access to the upper coupler bolt.
- Mark alignment: Before removal, mark the orientation of the shaft to the steering column and gearbox input shaft with paint or a scribe. This ensures correct clocking during reassembly.
- Remove fasteners: Disconnect the pinch bolts or clamp bolts at both the steering column end and the gearbox input end. Support the shaft as you remove the last fastener.
- Install the new shaft: Slide APDTY 536374 into position, aligning the splines and coupler per your alignment marks. Tighten the upper and lower pinch bolts to the torque specification in your service manual (typically 30-36 ft-lbs, but confirm for your model year).
- Reconnect battery and test: Reconnect the negative battery cable, start the engine, and turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times. Check for smooth operation, no binding, and no clunking. Test-drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area to confirm the repair.
If you are not comfortable working on steering components, have a professional mechanic perform the installation. Steering system integrity is critical for safe vehicle operation.
Why Choose APDTY 536374 Over Dealer or Aftermarket Alternatives?
APDTY 536374 offers the performance and fit of an OE replacement at a fraction of dealer pricing. Each shaft is manufactured to meet or exceed original specifications, with precision-machined splines, a robust rag joint coupler, and corrosion-resistant finishes. Unlike some aftermarket shafts that require modification or separate coupler purchase, APDTY 536374 is a complete, bolt-in assembly.
Choosing APDTY means you get:
- Direct OE fitment for 4WD Dakota and Durango trucks—no adapters or guesswork
- Brand-new components throughout the assembly, eliminating all wear points at once
- Quality engineering with durable materials and precise tolerances
- Convenient availability through APDTY.com and major online marketplaces
When your truck's steering feels loose or clunks over bumps, APDTY 536374 delivers a reliable, cost-effective solution backed by a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Frequently asked questions
Will APDTY 536374 fit my 2WD Dodge Dakota or Durango?
No. APDTY 536374 is designed exclusively for 4WD (four-wheel drive) models. Two-wheel drive Dakota and Durango trucks use a different intermediate steering shaft configuration and require a separate part number. Always verify your vehicle's drive type before ordering.
Do I need to replace both the upper and lower shaft, or can I replace just one section?
APDTY 536374 is a complete upper and lower intermediate steering shaft assembly with coupler. Replacing the entire assembly at once eliminates all wear points—worn splines, fatigued rubber couplers, and loose u-joints—ensuring a long-lasting repair and restoring factory steering feel.
What tools do I need to install the intermediate steering shaft?
You will need basic hand tools: a socket set with metric sockets, wrenches, a torque wrench, and possibly a screwdriver or trim tool to remove interior panels for access. A service manual for your specific model year will provide torque specifications and detailed removal/installation steps.
How do I know if my steering shaft is bad or if the problem is elsewhere in the steering system?
Classic intermediate shaft symptoms include clunking from the steering column area when turning or hitting bumps, and noticeable play at the steering wheel before the wheels respond. If you hear noise from the front suspension or feel play only when the wheels are turned sharply, inspect tie rods, ball joints, or the steering gearbox as well. A physical inspection of the rag joint coupler—look for cracking, separation, or excessive movement—can confirm shaft wear.
The APDTY 536374 Upper & Lower Intermediate Steering Shaft with Coupler is the complete, direct-fit solution for restoring tight, responsive steering in your 4WD 1997-1999 Dodge Dakota or 1998-1999 Dodge Durango. By replacing the entire shaft assembly—upper section, lower section, and coupler—in one installation, you eliminate clunking, play, and vague steering feel at the source. Verify your vehicle's year, make, model, and 4WD configuration using the compatibility chart, then order APDTY 536374 with confidence. Get back on the road with the precise steering control your truck deserves.