164K on clock, still on air, new Geolander stock size tires/pressures, tracking done, new drag link but it wanders around when running straight. Could the damper need replacing?
P38 steering feels "dead" in straight ahead position
- Thread starter P38
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Steering damper shouldn't cause what you describe. The purpose of that component is to soften the jolt of external steering inputs, i.e. bumping into a curb/rock/pothole. I don't know what you mean by "tracking done," but the first place I'd check is the tie rod ends. If those are worn they can cause vague steering feel. Without knowing more, another potential culprit is the steering shaft. Fortunately, both of these options are easy to inspect.
Thanks! I had the front alignment (track as some of us Brits call it) done after replacing the tie rod and drag link pair. I know the steering box can be adjusted too, but was wondering if the damper was worn, if there was less resistance around the center position (wear on the rod/seals) which might contribute to the lack of feel.
Thanks for the clarification. By steering shaft I mean the shaft running through the engine compartment that connects the steering wheel to the steering box. I'm not familiar with the components on the P38, but on my 1993 Range Rover I discovered that part was worn and had excessive play. Thankfully in that instance the replacement was inexpensive and the installation was simple.
Yeah, I had the same thing. With the previous tires which were a road only tread it tramlined. My other P38 with 16 inch wheels and bigger tires has no issues. The low profiles are a bit of a curse I think.
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Not sure. I'll have to check with the dealer, because they replaced the factory ones with Bilsteins at some point. I was thinking they might need to be replaced - for other reasons. It doesn't maintain good control over certain bumps
Have you checked the panhard rod bushings? I doubt they're worn out on a stock 164Kmi truck, but I have seen the bushing deteriorate so bad on lifted trucks that they will quickly change lanes without moving the wheel.