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06-07-2011, 08:54 PM
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#1 |
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Registered User
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Upper Falls, MD
Posts: 170
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4wd K5 steering issue
I just finished rebuilding my K5. I replaced everything on the front axle, ball joints, tie rod and ends, rag joint, steering column, everything. The problem I am having is that the steering won't return to center after coming out of a turn. I have checked everything and it is good. I am running Offroad Design HD front shackles which are1/2" longer than stock. Is that 1/2" enough to throw the caster off and cause this? I read that these shackles are the same length that chevy started using in 88'. The steering is smooth with no play, it is just the return. There is a shim installed between the front axle and leaf to try to compensate. Could this be adding too much caster in the other direction? I believe it is a 6 degree shim. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Should I remove the shim and just run the shackles? I just want my steering to return. Thanks
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06-07-2011, 09:17 PM
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#2 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: so-cal
Posts: 85
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
Did you do a alignment job?
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06-07-2011, 09:30 PM
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#3 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AK
Posts: 198
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
Six degrees is a lot. For a 1/2" I wouldn't think you need ANY shim.
Do you have a steering stabilizer? Is it too stiff or worn out to where it does not allow travel back to 0. Steering box? I would guess it's fine, but did someone torque the adjustment way down? ??? |
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06-07-2011, 09:43 PM
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#4 |
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Registered User
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Upper Falls, MD
Posts: 170
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
Yeah, I adjusted the steering box and its fine. I just did some sketching and I think the shim is the problem. It is way overcompensating for the 1/2" longer shim. I am going to pull it tomorrow and see what happens. No steering stabilizer and no bump steer.
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06-08-2011, 09:19 AM
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#5 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2000
Location: Modesto, CA
Posts: 1,842
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
I agree, 6deg is way too much. I have had shims crack and spit out from under the springpack resulting in loose Ubolts = Not good
 Ya, I hate shims...if I ever am forced to use one I would only buy steel ones. Do you have a big lift on this rig? I run the smae shakels and never had that issue...   
__________________
1972 K5 MPFI454/Sm465/Np205/D60/14FFd/Re-Centerd H1s w/Swamper Iroks 
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06-09-2011, 01:49 PM
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#6 |
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Registered User
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Upper Falls, MD
Posts: 170
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
Shims gone, problem is better but I think the steering gear is worn. Tried adjusting and it either has a lot of play or its almost locked. I think it may be the one from the factory
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06-09-2011, 05:17 PM
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#7 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AK
Posts: 198
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
Glad it improved. I replaced mine and it was a big help.
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06-09-2011, 08:05 PM
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#8 |
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Registered User
Join Date: May 2008
Location: Upper Falls, MD
Posts: 170
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
Yeah, I figure now everything will be new. I went with the quick ratio Red Head from Classic Heartbeat. Can't wait. I think this may be the last bug I have to work out. Actually I know its not the last but hopefully the last one for a while. Keep finding cut corners from the previous owner. Oh yeah, is masking tape a good wire insulator for under the hood?!?!?!?
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06-10-2011, 11:07 AM
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#9 | |
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Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2000
Location: Modesto, CA
Posts: 1,842
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Re: 4wd K5 steering issue
Quote:
__________________
1972 K5 MPFI454/Sm465/Np205/D60/14FFd/Re-Centerd H1s w/Swamper Iroks
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