Does steering damper affect alignment?
Replacement of your steering damper will do nothing to effect alignment, but it will make the steering feel better.
What does steering stabilizer do for a Jeep?
In a nutshell, a steering stabilizer is a small shock absorber that mounts (usually horizontally or very close to it) on the steering linkage and helps stabilize the unwanted side-to-side motion of the front tires up through the steering system.
Why does my Jeep have a steering damper?
This part is common on trucks, sport utility vehicles and Jeeps with larger circumference or diameter tires, aftermarket suspension upgrades or four wheel drive vehicles. Its primary function is to restrict side-to-side motion in the steering column, so that drivers have a better feel of the roads they drive.
Can a stock steering damper fix a death wobble?
For the most part, a stock damper is fine. Get one from a parts store for 1/3 what the dealer wants. But find your loose/broken/unbalanced part first. In conclusion, the steering damper does not cause, and consequently, fix death wobble in a Jeep. Also see my other tip published at Torque News, about adjusting your Jeep Wrangler headlights.
What makes a steering stabilizer or damper work?
A steering stabilizer / damper is mechanical in nature but uses hydraulic fluid to stabilize the steering column and input shaft. If you notice hydraulic fluid on the ground, behind the engine and on the driver side, it’s possible that you have a broken seal on the steering damper.
When to change steering stabilizer on Jeep Wrangler?
After a new bumper, winch, lift kit or larger tires are installed it is suggested that your steering stabilizer setup is reevaluated. You should do this because adding new components like bumpers or larger tires will increase vehicle weight which can cause added strain and possibly a change in angle of your suspension.
Why do I need a steering stabilizer on my Jeep Wrangler?
This vibration can cause various steering components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and your drag link to prematurely wear out. Wranglers come with a steering stabilizer equipped that is designed to function with the stock steering and suspension angles.
What to do about steering wheel wobble in Jeep Wrangler?
The company will install a new steering damper, a part also known as a stabilizer, in affected Jeep Wranglers in an effort to address the steering wheel vibration reported by some owners after their vehicles hit a bump at highway speeds, an experience many describe as frightening.
What causes a jeep steering wheel to shake?
“Jeep vehicles contain a defectively designed and/or manufactured front axle and damping system that causes the steering wheel to shake violently when operating at highway speeds after encountering common and expected road variations.” FCA is seeking dismissal of the lawsuit.
What causes a sharp movement on the steering wheel?
Kickback is a sharp or rapid movement by the steering wheel everytime the front tires hit a hole or bump in the road. Although some kickback are normal and unavoidable, excessive kickback can be caused by: Possible Cause #1: Low or uneven tire pressure. Possible Cause #2: Sagging springs.