Center Link for 1997-2003 Ford F-150 & More - Dorman 540-973

Be the first to review this product
$56.99
MPN: 540-973
UPC: 194883774308
Item Package Quantity: 1
Adding to cart… The item has been added

Have questions?

Dorman - OE Solutions Steering Center Link P/N:540-973
Dorman - OE Solutions Steering Center Link P/N:540-973
$56.99

Keep your steering linkage connected and responsive with the Dorman - OE Solutions Center Link 540-973, which links the steering gear's motion to the tie rods so the steered wheels turn together. It fits many vehicles, among them the 1997-2003 Ford F-150, 1997-1999 Ford F-250 and 1997-2002 Ford Expedition, as a direct-fit replacement for the listed applications. See the Buyer's Guide tab for the full list and engine details.

  • Direct replacement: Reverse-engineered to replicate how the stock center link fits and works on specific vehicles.
  • Reliable fit: Precision-engineered to match the original part's design and dimensions.
  • Durable construction: Made to strict standards from sturdy, safe materials.
  • Rigorously tested: Thorough quality-control checks are designed to support long service.

As the center link and its connection points wear, steering can start to feel loose or vague. Signs that this part may need replacing include excess play in the steering wheel, wandering on the road, clunking during steering inputs and uneven tire wear. Other steering and suspension parts can cause similar symptoms, so inspect the linkage before replacing. Have the wheel alignment checked after installation.

Interchange: 626.65306 · DS-1426
45B1135 · TL2026 · DS1426 · F65Z3304BA · XL3Z3304AA · GDS1426 · MDS1426 · JTY229 · 62665306

This part cross-references / interchanges with the following part numbers:

45B1135, 626.65306, TL2026, DS1426, F65Z3304BA, XL3Z3304AA, GDS1426, MDS1426, DS-1426, JTY229

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a steering center link do?

It connects the pitman arm to the idler arm and carries the tie rods, passing the steering gear's motion to the wheels so they turn together.

Will it fit my 1997-2003 Ford F-150?

It is listed as a direct-fit replacement for the 1997-2003 Ford F-150, along with the 1997-1999 Ford F-250 and 1997-2002 Ford Expedition. Check the Buyer's Guide tab for your exact vehicle.

What signs suggest the center link may need replacing?

Excess steering play, wandering, clunking during steering inputs or uneven tire wear may be signs. Other steering parts cause similar symptoms, so inspect the linkage first.

Is it designed to replace the original part?

Yes. Dorman reverse-engineered it to replicate the stock center link's fit and function on specific vehicles, with its design and dimensions matched to the original part.

Do I need an alignment after installing it?

Replacing steering linkage can change the toe setting, so have the alignment checked afterward. Follow the vehicle service information for torque values and procedures.