Steering Column Repair: 1998 or 99 Dodge truck 1500 4x4, plastic spacers, dodge truck

Question
Hello,
I had a truck that hit a tree at very low speed, it popped out of gear and rolled into one. The repairs were made and seemed relatively minor, just bumper and some condenser reparations. After I got the truck, back it was very stiff in the steering. I've been told maybe there is a piece or part in the column that might need replacing or may have been damaged during that small collision. All suspension parts were checked completely and nothing apparent. So is that true or might there be some other reason for the stiff steering? Thank you.

Answer
Hi,

I would consider the fact that the steering column is partially collasped. If you pull the lower dash piece and look upward to the mounting bolts you will see a bracket with 2 plastic spacers that slide into the bracket. If they are not centered, the column is collasped and it needs a new mast. In the 60's they went with a collapsable column so the steering shaft did not go in your chest. Does not take much impact to ruin the column.