I have an 06 F250 CC PSD 4x4 with a 4in ProComp lift and 20in rim with 35's.

It feels like there is alot of play in the steering when you drive done the road. I feel like I really have to work at driving.(almost like I am swirving in my lane) The dealer says thats the way it is when you lift a truck.

Could someone tell me if they think this is true? If not what else could I do to fix it.


Thanks for your time,

Jeff

 

What kind of tires do you have? I used to have an older truck with a lift and 36" tires that were NOT radials, and I had the same issues with the truck wandering. That's when I learned about radials. Maybe take a look at your steering stabilizer too. Though yours is an 06. Should be good. Just a thought.

 

The tires are Pro Comp xtreme AT 35 x 13.5

 

Any help???

 

A properly installed, properly designed lift kit should not have a lot of play. In fact, a properly installed quality kit has actually been known to improve the ride. The bigger question is does your steering wheel have a lot of play when you are not moving. I.E. when you turn the steering wheel do the tires respond instantly, or is there a delay? A delay indicates a worn geerbox or some other part of the steering linkage. Which, even though it is an 06, it is possible depending on how the vehicle is used. If the steering is firm while the vehicle is in park, then it is most likely related to either your wheel/tire combo, or something else that is worn or missing. Like a bushing in the front end, or a stabilizer bar or something. I would think that with 20" rims, even with 35" tires that should not be a big deal. 35" tires on a 16" rim, yeah you are gonna get sway going down the highway simply due to the tall sidewalls, but a 4" lift is not that much in terms of lifts and 35" tires are really not that big in terms of lifts either. The only thing is if they didn't put in a dropped pitman arm, you may experience some bump steer on rough roads, and the tendancy to turn farther to one direction than the other. I would just do a real good inspection of all the front end components to make sure nothing is missing and that nothing is worn. Ford is probably just giving you a hard time becuase they really don't like to do suspension work on lifted vehicles. Too much liability for them, non-stock parts, and a lot of things that they might not be trained on. So in most instances, they will give a lame excuse so they won't have to deal with it.

 

My 05 truck was the same way.I had excessive play in the steering box.Read the Ford TSB 05-22-1 (steering wheel oscillation).I adjusted the steering gear mesh load per the directions in the bulletin.Now the truck drives PERFECT even with 37" tires!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

The good thing is that Ford put the lift and tires on. So they are stuck working on it. I will check everything out tomorrow. I only have 1025 miles on the truck so I dont think it should be a wear issue. But who knows. But there is way to much play.

Like being on ice driving dont the road. There is a big delay when you are turning either way.

I will also check out the Ford TSB.