Too Much Steering Play
03-05-2013, 02:12 PM
#1
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Too Much Steering Play
I have a 2013 JKU Sport (778 miles) (1 month old). 3.5" RE standard lift, 17" Fuel Revolver Wheels, 35" Toyo MTs, Skyjacker dual stabilizer. The problem is there is to much steering play, I can move my steering wheel back and forth 5-6" with almost no turning. It makes the jeep wonder, I am constantly moving the steering wheel back and forth to keep it on the road. Everything else rides perfect. This doesn't seem correct. My lifted 2000 TJ turned on a dime. What do you think the problem is?
03-05-2013, 02:17 PM
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Your lift has caused you to lose positive caster in your front axle. Lower adjustable (or upper) control arms can help put caster back to where it should be and give you less flighty or wandering feeling in your steering
03-05-2013, 02:30 PM
#3
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Who installed your lift? I Believe that lift comes with cam bolts front and rear. Although arms are better, you can set the correct caster with the cam bolts.
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03-05-2013, 02:46 PM
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Dealer, Akins Ford Dodge Jeep in Winder GA. They have an off road shop called Wild Willies. I am going to call them in the morning, ask some questions. Thanks for the help.
03-05-2013, 02:52 PM
#5
JK Super Freak
They are a pita to install. I checked yours did come with them. You have to grind out some of the lower control arm. Takes a lot of time. I would not be surprised if they skipped this step.
Check this out so you can see what I'm talking about http://www.4wdandsportutility.com/te...ain_tires.html
It is possible they moved if you wheeled it hard since your lift. Probably not though. You are supposed to have everything retorqued after the break in period too.
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Check this out so you can see what I'm talking about http://www.4wdandsportutility.com/te...ain_tires.html
It is possible they moved if you wheeled it hard since your lift. Probably not though. You are supposed to have everything retorqued after the break in period too.
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Last edited by shockwaveaz; 03-05-2013 at 02:55 PM.
03-05-2013, 03:07 PM
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They did tell me to bring back at 1000 miles to check and tighten everything up. The off road guys didn't seem like the type to pull one over on anyone. I am sure they will take of it or suggest some control arms.
03-05-2013, 03:18 PM
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03-06-2013, 04:46 AM
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I checked the jeep out this morning before work. The cam bolts are in and it doesn't look like it has moved. There is a slight negative camber but I read online that is what you want, about 5%, Seems like a lot. I didn't check the %. I also read that a toe out can cause this wandering. Is that true? Apparently a lifted jeep should have about 1/8" of toe in. I am going to check that tonight. If toe out is the problem that should an easy fix. You would think an off road shop would know this.
03-06-2013, 05:12 AM
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What is your caster? I am at about 5 - 5.5 with a 2.5 inch lift and the AEV brackets (which added the positive caster).
I have play in my steering wheel as well but only like an inch or so. 6 inches is ridiculous...sounds like something is not tight.
I have play in my steering wheel as well but only like an inch or so. 6 inches is ridiculous...sounds like something is not tight.
