So my 2003 4runner had a factory Toyota steering rack installed in Jan. Drives and steers perfect. I am on 35’s. I just got this truck about a two months ago. Going down a farm field path (pumpkin patch) when I would hit or go over a rock the steering wheel just felt super loose or as if the slighted rock would cause the the steering wheel to have little resistance. I’m not just how to describe, other than I really felt there should have been more pressure holding the steering and not having the steering bounce around so easily. Steering pump doesn’t make any sounds or anything. Truck runs perfect. 220. Is this just normal with 35’s on these guys or?
Steering loose on dirt small rocks?
- Thread starter COhailtr4
- Start date
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what's the rest of your suspension look like? I'm assuming to have a new rack in it also got an alignment afterwards? Sounds potentially like not enough caster maybe..
what else was changed during this recent swap out? I can't imagine having anything sloppy or lose in the steering shaft if you're not feeling anything like that on pavement..
what else was changed during this recent swap out? I can't imagine having anything sloppy or lose in the steering shaft if you're not feeling anything like that on pavement..
MikeinNH67
Senior Member
With the truck off and key far enough to unlock the steering wheel, how much side to side play is there turning the wheel? The steering shaft u-joint can make for some odd steering if it's loose.
randy88fj62
Member
Not enough caster will give you bump steer which makes the steering wheel rotate over a bump. It would also wander on the road if you let go of the steering wheel.
Very common on solid front axle trucks that were not lifted correctly.
Very common on solid front axle trucks that were not lifted correctly.
Sorry to say but you're going to need to do more work to eliminate that. Here is a list of things I've done to tighten up my steering A LOT from what it used to be. Still a little shaky but far more bearable to drive. I used to stab the gas pedal over bumps and the steering wheel would be out of control. Big heavy tires don't help either :naughty:
Poly Whiteline LCA bushings
Poly steering rack bushings with 1/2" bolts
Removed rag joint from steering shaft
New tie rod ends
More caster
Next step will be a new steering pump as mine has over 200k miles.
Poly Whiteline LCA bushings
Poly steering rack bushings with 1/2" bolts
Removed rag joint from steering shaft
New tie rod ends
More caster
Next step will be a new steering pump as mine has over 200k miles.
