Steering doesn't return to center

[YakTJ]

Today noticed that when turning left or right thru curves that the steering would just stay turned to the left or right. It doesn't automatically return to center if you let go of the wheel. Power steering fluid level ok. It is not hard to turn. Just doesn't return to center straight. Is it my steering damper??? Advise from all the experts please! Thanks.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

That's a common symptom of insufficient caster angle which is what provides good return to center after completing a turn. A big suspension lift will reduce the caster angle, do you know what yours is? 7 degrees is factory but 5.5 to 6 degrees is fine for larger tires.

 

[YakTJ]

Jerry,
Only a 2 inch leveling lift on the front and tires are 265/75/16 BFGoodrich .

 

[AndyG]

Man you can't beat Jerry for being a storehouse of Jeep knowledge.

 

[jjvw]

Today noticed ....

Is this a recent change or has the jeep always behaved like this?

 

[YakTJ]

jjvw,

I think it has been this way for a while and maybe aware of it more today as where i drove this morning was really curvy.

 

[KCsTJ]

My 97 is the same. 2" lift on 31s. Steering has never returned to center.
Alignment is spot on.
No driveline vibes.
I just figured that's how a Jeep drives.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

How is your toe-in angle? Your suspension lift height isn't tall enough to normally cause a significant loss of caster angle. A bad toe-in angle can also cause steering issues. Whatever it is your steering issue is very likely alignment related.

 

[YakTJ]

Thanks Jerry . I will have the alignment checked.

 

[jjvw]

Thanks Jerry . I will have the alignment checked.

Do a tape measure alignment yourself first before spending money.

 

[YakTJ]

Searched the forum and found Jerry's post on alignment!!!! Looks like i can do that!!!

Thanks all.

 

[KCsTJ]

Searched the forum and found Jerry's post on alignment!!!! Looks like i can do that!!!

Thanks all.

You can and you will save yourself much heartache by doing your own maintenance and repairs.
Nobody will take the care and patience to do the job right on your own jeep but yourself.
You dont want professional repair shops putting their greasy paws on your Jeep

 

[Shatto]

Tire Guys tell you to rotate and get an alignment every 7,000 - 10,000 miles.
Because I always have, I got a Lifetime Alignment from Firestone. But my Jeep has stock tires.
I suggest you consider same because all you need is to hit a submerged stump or slip onto a boulder.

 

[matkal]

My TJ (new to me) has the same symptom, steering will not center on its own. I checked the toe in and it’s at 1/8” with 31” tires that measure 29 3/4”.

It goes down the road fine, no death wobble, tires appear to be worn fairly even. What else could cause this symptom?

 

[Jerry Bransford]

My TJ (new to me) has the same symptom, steering will not center on its own. I checked the toe in and it’s at 1/8” with 31” tires that measure 29 3/4”.

It goes down the road fine, no death wobble, tires appear to be worn fairly even. What else could cause this symptom?

Assuming by your 31" tire size that a suspension lift with adjustable length control arms has not been installed, my only guess would be that your steering box is worn out. Assuming your toe-in is truly between 1/16" and 1/8" as you measured. Also make sure your tire pressure is correct, somewhere around 31-33 psi for your 31" tires.

 

[matkal]

Assuming by your 31" tire size that a suspension lift with adjustable length control arms has not been installed, my only guess would be that your steering box is worn out. Assuming your toe-in is truly between 1/16" and 1/8" as you measured. Also make sure your tire pressure is correct, somewhere around 31-33 psi for your 31" tires.

Thank you for your quick response. I’ll have to do some research

 

[matkal]

The u-joint and bearing on my lower steering shaft are kaput. I removed the steering shaft and am in the process of getting a replacement.

I will let y’all know how it goes.

 

[matkal]

Update on my Jeep: found a used lower steering shaft for $50, cleaned and greased the needle bearing and viola! Steering problems solved.

I’m a happy camper!