Steering with car OFF vs ON question?

[calimobber]

Okay so my 2002 auto 4runner has 265k miles on it and I have a question about the steering. Im trying to figure out if my steering is kinda stiff or just old suv with big tires.


Jacking the front end up and moving the wheel back and forth. For you guys does the steering get way easier to move when the truck is started?

Its not super hard to move the wheel but it does take some strength and it doesnt seem to change with car on vs off.


Im about to upgrade my steering rack cause its old and I need new tie rods anyways but just curious about how easy steering should be with 32" tires. Im temped to just get a new oem pump too just to have solid new refresh on all components.

 

[the_welfare_wagon]

Okay so my 2002 auto 4runner has 265k miles on it and I have a question about the steering. Im trying to figure out if my steering is kinda stiff or just old suv with big tires.


Jacking the front end up and moving the wheel back and forth. For you guys does the steering get way easier to move when the truck is started?

Its not super hard to move the wheel but it does take some strength and it doesnt seem to change with car on vs off.


Im about to upgrade my steering rack cause its old and I need new tie rods anyways but just curious about how easy steering should be with 32" tires. Im temped to just get a new oem pump too just to have solid new refresh on all components.

By 32s you mean 265/75?

I went to 255/85s and I did notice a difference but it’s nothing major.

By started do you mean having the truck running vs trying to turn the wheel with it off?


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[calimobber]

By 32s you mean 265/75?

I went to 255/85s and I did notice a difference but it’s nothing major.

By started do you mean having the truck running vs trying to turn the wheel with it off?


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I have same 255/85's. its just been so long, and I cant remember what it was like before I upgraded. I dont even drive the 4runner much since its offroad/ camping rig. so makes it harder to remember.

I mean jack up the car and move the wheels back and forth. then turn the key and start the engine and do the same with the power steering pump running.

 

[jgue467]

I have 4 toyotas, a bmw and a kia - the 4runner is by far the stiffest steering with the bmw (surprise) being next - do you think Both are 'sports machine' inclinded? LOL.

 

[the_welfare_wagon]

If both front wheels are off the ground it should be fairly easy to turn the wheel. I just purchased a rack from McGeorge Toyota myself and im hoping it tightens up the front end.

With the mileage our trucks have it would be good to get it replaced especially if you think it’s starting to have issues.

I would definitely go OEM if you haven’t bought a rack already. I scored mine for less than 600 with tax and shipping.

But to answer your question it really shouldn’t be hard to move the wheels if they are off the ground. Should turn pretty easily without much resistance


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[calimobber]

yeah id only go all OEM. I not hard just curious if someone has done the test. Other cars its a clear difference when the engines running. Becomes super easy since the power steering fluid is flowing. Like one finger can move it easily.

just be annoying if I spend $1000 on new rack and pump and it was about the same. racks not leaking or anything. looking at it when rocking the wheel back and forth shows no play in bushings either.

 

[MaineRunna]

You should be able to turn the wheel with one finger with it running with the tires on the ground. Not easy like an old Dodge, but do-able

 

[Endlessblockades]

How does your stock steering rack clamp look?

 

[nissanh]

Try doing a flush with a branded ATF if it hasn't been done. Clean fluid makes all the wonders!
The radius of the 4runner steering wheel is also bit small.

Looks like Texans always maintain a fleet of cars!!

 

[calimobber]

How does your stock steering rack clamp look?

Its good. I swapped the bushing out at some poin. maybe 5 years ago.

doing a flush with a branded ATF if it hasn't been done. Clean fluid makes all the wonders!
The radius of the 4runner steering wheel is also bit small.

Looks like Texans always maintain a fleet of cars!!

Yeah ive done a full flush and cleaned the screen. its prob fine just normal old age and big tires.

Ill prob replace at somepoint soon just to get new tie rods but thanks for the info.