steering geometry pre 02MY vs post 02MY

[robertofollia]

D2 weren't renowned by the steering feeling, at least whenever I hop off my RR Classic and hop on the D2 (mine is a 99MY, 1st build) I always notice some remoteness (not vagueness, as it's spot-on) it's like you never feel where the wheels are pointing to.

I also had a Td5 2004MY D2, only for 12 months (I sold it as I could not stand up the Td5 frequent stalling and the on-off syndrom -nothing without turbo, and all power from 2,000 rpm). But I remember the 2004 MY D2 had much more steering feeling than the 99MY one.

Looking at the part numbers the 99MY steering knuckle were parts FTC5115 and 5116
post 2002MY (from 2A on, revised front end pocketed headlamps) are TAX000040 and TAX000050.
Both parts look the same, so it could be a question of slightest change in steering geometru. I remember looking at the 2002MY press release where it was stated that the steering geometry had been revised (don't know if it was due to complaints from users)

As I would like to get rid of the lack of steering feeling, could anyone that have driven pre and post-2002MY D2 confirm the difference in steering feeling?


Thank you from the other side of the pond and best regards
Robert

 

[listerdiesel]

More likely the TD5 had more feel as the engine was a lot heavier! All that extra weight over the front wheels.

2095-2236kg for the V8
2150-2280kg for the TD5

Possibly there were modified steering components, but I don't think much changed in the geometry of the range.

Peter

 

[robertofollia]

Hi Peter,
thanks for your reply.
I managed to get my hands yesterday on a press release. It stated they modified suspension and steering geometry to improve handling, stating that spring-dampers rate had been modified, as well as the steering drag links and panhard rod among "other components" (they did not mention).
The panhard rods have been modified as the part numbers are different.
Don't know what difference might make the panhard rod, but I'm pretty sure the new one might fit, as the bolts are the same and the bushes too, it might be a very slight change.
It's odd because while the old steering knuckles had been discontinued, the panhard rods and drag links were still being supplied in both specs (pre and post 03 MY), but I'm pretty sure the "new" spec panhard rod might fit older vehicles.

Anyway, will begin chasing any ball joint play and might bite the bullet and try and fit the improved panhard rod.

best regards
Robert

 

[mbrummal]

The panhard rods are different lengths. I think the 04 one is shorter and won't work on the earlier trucks.

 

[robertofollia]

Thanks Mason for the data. Better to avoid swapping panhard rods, then.
As far as the steering knuckles go, somebody found it! In the australian forum Paul gave me the answer
Camber angle
Old: -10'±30' (FTC5116, FTC5117)
New: +20'±30' (TAX000040, TAX000050)

So it was changed to improve responsiveness and feel. Now let's begin the research for the item...
Best regards
Robert

 

[turbodave]

Interesting. I have always been impressed with the steering and feel of my '03 when compared to other SUV's.
If they changed the camber, it is entirely feasible they also changed the KPI - are the axle housings the same on pre and post 2003 models?

 

[robertofollia]

Interesting. I have always been impressed with the steering and feel of my '03 when compared to other SUV's.
If they changed the camber, it is entirely feasible they also changed the KPI - are the axle housings the same on pre and post 2003 models?

The axle housings were changed as well from 03MY, as the panhard rod is shorter (around 30mm, to reduce bump steer) so mounting points in both axle and chassis differ.

Cheers from the other side of the pond