So, how much is it sacrilige....

Deadguy · Post by **Deadguy** » Fri Aug 26, 2011 1:54 pm

to put a steering stabilizer on my M38A1? I have all new steering linkage, but it still seems to be all over the road. And, if I do put a stabilizer on there, is there one that doesn't have a big, obnoxious red boot?

RimfireJim · Post by **RimfireJim** » Fri Aug 26, 2011 2:09 pm

Not so much "sacrilege" as it is a Band-Aid for problems elsewhere in the steering system. The correct kingpin bearing pre-load adds damping, as does the steering knuckle seal drag. Information on this page http://www.film.queensu.ca/cj3b/Tech/Steering.html is a good start for evaluating the health of your entire steering system, which doesn't end with the linkage.
A stabilizer can actually damage your steering linkage by bending the tie rod tube to which it is attached.

Deadguy · Post by **Deadguy** » Fri Aug 26, 2011 2:16 pm

Well, I actually had a local shop that specializes in older Jeeps but in new Kingpin and wheel bearing, a new bell crank, steering gear box, leaf springs, shocks, tires, rims, and tie rod ends. The truck still has a bit of wander on the road.

Oldsalt · Post by **Oldsalt** » Fri Aug 26, 2011 5:57 pm

If it just drifts around more than usual while driving, you may need to check the toe-in of the front wheels. Ie wheel alignment.

Post by **wesk** » Sat Aug 27, 2011 4:15 pm

If you don't have a lot of time behind the wheel of 50 year old manual steering trucks then that wander is most likely normal. Power steering that so many are born and raised with is internally balanced hydraulicly and takes this minor wander or as it is often called hunting out of the equation. With manual steering it will always chase the dips, ridges and tilts of the road surface.

The steering stabilzer is nothing more then a standard gas shock absorber. It's not designed to eliminate wander/hunt. It's sole purpose is to offer shock protection from the road wheels when they suddenly are shoved left or right by terrain. It also by nature increases the steering effort you must exert in turns.

Deadguy · Post by **Deadguy** » Mon Aug 29, 2011 7:37 am

Thanks Wes. It is just minor wander, no more death wobble or massive steering play in the gearbox.
This month, I should get the full winter enclosure, the in cab heater, and the turn signal upgrade in my M38A1. I'll post pictures when it's all done.