2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Stabilizer Bad?

[KOREDISH]

Something to note: I have D25 Skyjacker coils installed which changed the height of the truck adn installed the DT trackbar to bring axle back to center. Before I had it aligned the steering wheel was way off. Now the truck seems to steer a lot different. So I'm assuming the tech adjusted the steering box. Seems really easy to turn and has play. Don't know if its related to the DT trackbar or not. I need to check my steering box, u joints and ball joints as well. So here are my questions



1. ) I was wondering how you determine whether or not your front stailizer is shot or not?



2. ) Why does it steer so easy now with play?





Thanks



Dish

 

[snowracer69]

Dish,



I too have the "easy steering" compared to the other 2nd Gen trucks I've drove. My Grandfather's '02 and one of my buddies' '01. 5 steering is much "tighter" and more responsive. It seems to me like the steering box is loose, but I'm not sure. I have a DSS and the DT trackbar too. I'm thinking that maybe my output-preload on the box isn't tight enough, but don't want to drop my steering box again to see if that's the problem. Not sure I could do the pre-load w/o dropping the box.



Will search for the TSB on the pre-load and post back.



Josh



EDIT: Here's the TSB I was talking about from Fritz's site... might me my problem, as I had my steering box out about a year ago and might have loosened this up. TSB On steering wander

 

[Andy Redmond]

The pre-load can be performed on the truck, just remove the pinch bolt on the steering shaft and slide it back (might have to "stretch the side of the shaft by prying it open to get ti to slide back.





Before doing any of this secure the steering wheel with a commercial holder, string etc. so that clockspring damage will not occur.



Follow the tsb, a little loose is better than too tight.



Good luck