Steering Wanders after FJ Lift

[mikey2nuts]

So about 2 months ago I added a 2012 Fj Bilstein suspension to my 2005 v6 4runner with 78,000 and I included a toytec 1/2" spacer in the front. As my truck sits the front measure 35 1/4" or 35 1/2" and back is 36 3/4" although It looks level to the naked eye..

The problem, I am having is the handling characteristics are noticeably worse after the lift 5500 miles later. After I put it on I had an immediate alignment and multiple times I have checked to ensure everything is tight....

It handles a bit like a pick up truck with weight in the back, the steering feels a bit sloppy and then once you turn the wheel a slight bit more it darts quickly. Unfortunately It is not that pleasant to drive this way, I mean it works fine but the driving experience Is a bit more white knuckle constant slight adjustments are needed.

So I have thought maybe I should take out the 1/2" spacer and put in a 1/4" spacer or maybe my sway bar rubber mounts are worn and I should get the JEGS poly ones... Hoping these would help any ideas suggestions or similar experiences out there?

 

[sonerick]

Increasing caster to 3* or 4* will reduce wandering and increase high-speed stability. What numbers were you able to achieve with your alignment?

That being said, other things can cause wandering, including worn shocks, control arm bushings, tie rod ends, etc. I would start by checking those things.

The sway bar controls body roll while turning. Although upgrading to poly bushings can make the steering noticeably tighter and more precise, it will generally not fix wandering symptoms. Worn sway bar bushings usually manifest themselves as clunks that occur when the suspension cycles while turning (e.g. pulling into a sloped driveway or parking lot).

Hope this helps.

 

[Doozi]

It's more than likely the reduction of caster angle. When I first lifted mine, I was at the minimum of the spec with 2" of lift. I thought that it was terrible at first, but I got used it and then I added Light Racing adjustable upper control arms and was able to get it back into the center of the spec.

 

[gm350reratliff]

The alignment tech should've tried to get the highest possible caster numbers, while maintaining good camber, cross camber, and cross caster. Unless you have aftermarket UCAs, it's hard to get good caster when lifted even the slightest amount. Higher caster angles will help improve stability and slow down the steering a little. It will also help in not following road crown.

I would also check to make sure nothing else is worn.