Steering problems

[zspokess]

Last week I purchased 2 front Bilsteins, 1 KYB steering damper, and a new Pitman arm to install on my '86 4runner this weekend, well we got a huge snow storm and I wasn't able to tackle the job as I have no place covered to work. I need this stuff done badly and my friend who was going to help bailed anyway, so this morning I took it to the Meineke just around the corner from where I work and had them install those things. I figured those are pretty basic and on an old truck like that, even Meineke shouldn't have too much trouble.
So here's the problem, On the drive home after getting it back, I noticed that the steering wheel sits about 30 degrees off to the left while the truck is going straight, and the truck pulls hard to the right when I let go of the steering wheel.

I am definitely don't have a lot of experience when it comes to working on my own cars, but I'm thinking that the problems all originate with the Pitman arm replacement, as I think that the shocks and stabalizer are all simple bolt in replacements. Is what I'm experiencing normal after a Pitman arm install, and do I just need an alignment or should I go to Meineke and get pissed tommorow?

any advice on what the problem is and possible solutions would be much appreciated.

 

[toyoboy]

I wonder why Mineke don't recommend an alignment. Usually when may customers coming in for chassic repair I would perform a test drive befor and after the repair. Since your replacing a pitman arm, an alignment is highly recommend.

 

[Gryphon]

I agree, any time you mess with front end linkage, you need an alignment afterwards. I too, am surprised they didn't do one.

Take it back! I would hold off on getting mad, but definetly take it back and see if they will be good about it. If not, then you can go off in a measured fashion about liability and unsafe work.:cursin: I just find you usually get better results being nice first.

Let us know what they say!

 

[zspokess]

Thanks for the help, I ended up taking it to an alignment specialty shop and they said it is pretty normal for that to happen after changing the steering damper and pitman arm. So, a $45 alignment later and the steering wheel and tracking are straight and the Bilsteins are so smooth.