Steering Issue
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New User
Joined: Feb 2022
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Steering Issue
I installed a BDS Leveling kit with Fox shocks, new wheels and tires and new adjustable track bar. Since installation, the truck pulls to the right when I llet go of the steering wheel. Two different shops have confirmed the truck is aligned. I’ve tried moving the tires around but the problem still exists. I install a fox steering stabilizer with no change. When I hold the steering wheel center, the truck drives perfectly straight. When I let go of the steering wheel, the wheel immediately moves about a quarter turn to the right and the truck turns to the right. What can be causing this? I do notice that when I turn left there feels like more tension in the wheel. When I turn right, the wheel feels loose until about the quarter turn and then the tension feels similar to the other side. Please help.
Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 1,555
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In hydraulic assisted steering, there is a spool valve in the hydraulic system. The spool valve directs hydraulic pressure to one side or the other when the wheel turns even slightly. In most systems, this is done through a torque rod in the steering box to open the valve. The spool valve has to be centered so that it doesn't provide pressure when the torque rod is not opening the valve. It would seem you have a problem with the spool valve having a bias. You can verify this by jacking up the front end and with the wheels off the ground, start the engine. If the wheels turn themselves you know something is going on with the valve. I can't tell you what that would be. I know SD steering systems have changed over the years and while I'm a bit foggy on this, that there may be an electric assist instead of hydraulic. But even if it's electric, the same principles apply. There have to be zero pressure bias with the system at rest. Do the test first.
Lead Driver
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 8,634
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Whoah, way too much. Do you tow or haul with this truck? 55 all around is probably fine. It's a 250 so I'm guessing your door sticker says 60F, 65R.
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Mountain Pass
Joined: Dec 2020
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Start with the simplest fix first, Adjust tire pressure in the front 10-15 psi and see if it helps or hurts, then make another adjustment and so on. 85 in the front seems excessive for any single tire pickup.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,830
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From: NorCal
I was thinking of your situation while driving to work. I think the single steering stabilizer may not be enough for bigger and wider tires. I would suggest adding a dual steering stabilizers which are apposing shocks to help keep you straight. Big improvement with my truck but am running stock wheels and tires.
Big tires and wheels want to follow every groove, line and crown on the road.
Like said in posts above, start with the small stuff..I think my suggestion will help. but you need to verify all other items and geometry is correct
Best of luck
Big tires and wheels want to follow every groove, line and crown on the road.
Like said in posts above, start with the small stuff..I think my suggestion will help. but you need to verify all other items and geometry is correct
Best of luck
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