willysmjeeps.com

Good evening all,

This week I was working on getting the front end of my M38A1 apart (still doing disassembly), when I got to the steering system. The first thing I noticed was a sort of a shock absorber attached to the left side of the front axle and the right Tie Rod. Is this the infamous "steering damper" I have heard so much about? Should it be there? It looks like an aftermarket mod. . . The second thing I noticed is that the right tie rod appears to have about a fifteen degree bend in it just outboard of the shock absorber/steering damper attachment. Is it supposed to be bent? I thought they were straight tubes. I have pretty much decided to replace the entire section, but still wonder about that shock. . . Thanks in advance for your consideration, time, and help.

Yes it is the aftermarket steering damper. They are used to help control vibration and shimmy caused by worn parts usually. They do help preserve systems when very large tires are used with the stock suspension.

Steering system should be inspected for worn parts before you dis-assemble the jeep so you can determine what has issues and you can address them during the resto. Pay close attention to the steering pivot bearings in the steering knuckles.

Tie rod tubes are straight.

Thanks for the help, Wes.