NHTSA Service Bulletin 10136888: 2003-2008 Dodge 1500
Official manufacturer communication context for 2003-2008 Dodge 1500, with affected products, buyer checks and links into Carchieve recall, problem and VIN research.
Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA manufacturer communication and service bulletin records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.
Part Description: Pitman Arm Issue Description: Issue 1: Pitman Arm~ If replacing the steering linkage or drag link inner tie rod assembly at the pitman arm on a vehicle built before Febuary 14 th, 2008, verify that the pitman arm part number is 68039930AA. The part number is embossed on the pitman arm.~ If the pitman arm is not a 68039930AA, it must be replaced with a 68039930AA.~ Issue 2: For 2003 to 2007 MY only. If the OE steering linkage has been replaced with 52122362AA, 52122362AB, 52122362AC, 52122362AD, 52122362AE, or 52122362AF and pitman arm 68039930AA the following service parts are available:~ 68038055AA Outer end Tie Rod Package~ 68034233AA Tie Rod Adjuster Tube~ 68038054AA Inner end Tie Rod Package~ 68036726AB Drag Link Outer Socket Package~ 68034229AA Drag Link Adjuster Tube~ 68036940AA Drag Link Inner Socket Package~ You can go to the 2008 MY for graphically representation of parts. Issue 3: Some vehicles have been updated with the Big Steering Gear Kit. The Big Steering gear is identified by a 6 bolt top cap and replaces the 4 bolt top cap unit. The Big Steering Gear uses Pitman Arm 68141515AA and DOES NOT use 68039930AA. Ensure Tie Rod alignment procedure is used for proper setup and at vehicle alignment.
What this bulletin may mean before buying
Treat this as service research, not a verdict on one car. Before you buy, compare this communication with official recall campaigns, model-level owner complaint patterns, and the exact vehicle’s VIN-decoded specifications. A bulletin can help you ask a seller or dealer sharper questions about software updates, known repairs, warranty extensions and service history.
Affected products listed in this communication
Buyer checklist
- Run the 17-character VIN and confirm the year, make, model, engine and equipment match the listing.
- Check recall campaign pages for safety actions that may require dealer repair.
- Compare this bulletin with common problem pages for the same model and component area.
- Ask the seller or dealer whether the bulletin procedure, update or inspection has already been completed.
- Use the used-car buying checklist and get an independent inspection.
Frequently asked questions
What is NHTSA service bulletin 10136888?
Part Description: Pitman Arm Issue Description: Issue 1: Pitman Arm~ If replacing the steering linkage or drag link inner tie rod assembly at the pitman arm on a vehicle built before Febuary 14 th, 2008, verify that the pitman arm part number is 68039930AA. The part number is embossed on the pitman arm.~ If the pitman arm is not a 68039930AA, it must be replaced with a 68039930AA.~ Issue 2: For 2003 to 2007 MY.
Is a service bulletin the same as a recall?
No. A recall is a safety campaign with a required remedy for affected VINs. A service bulletin or manufacturer communication usually describes diagnostic, repair, software, warranty or service information.
How should a used-car buyer use this bulletin?
Use it as a research signal. Compare it with recalls, owner complaints, service records, a VIN report and an independent inspection before buying.
Check the exact VIN before you buy
Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.
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