Crux

I've had this bad steering problem for awhile now (before I installed the lift, tires, and wheels).

Going down the highway at 65+mph I have to hold tightly onto the steering wheel with both hands because I could instantly jump in either direction. It's especially bad when the wind is blowing strongly, I have to fight just to keep the truck going straight!

I have brand new tires and wheels, and just had an alignment done, but the problem still exists.
I also replaced all the steering rack bushings, but that didn't help either.

A few months ago I had a full inspection on the truck and was told the lower ball joints had slight play and left inner rack end had slight play.

Do you think replacing either of these parts will help?

(Also, what's the left inner rack end? The tierod or something? )

Thanks in advance!!!

rimpainter.com

Happy reading!

Crux

Ok, so I replaced both outer & inner tie-rods.
It was much easier than I expected.
(About a zillion times easier than replacing those stupid steering bushings).

Overall, steering is definitely improved.
Feels tighter and has less play on the highway at high speeds.
I can actually drive with a relaxed grip, as opposed to the white-knuckle-excessive-play driving from before.

I am still able to wiggle the left wheel a little bit back and forth when the truck is up on jack-stands, but it seems to be coming from within the rack and I don't want to replace that anytime soon. I guess that's pretty common according to the above thread.

Now I just need to get my timing belt done and some limiting straps on the front and I can start having some fun this summer!

94x4

You should probally go ahead & knock out those balljoints too, "Crux", as they will cause you to have uneven tire wear & you don't want that on those new tires, do ya ?!
Just a little heads up.

Crux

Hehe, yeah you are probably right.

I think I might be able to do the lower ball joints, but from what I've read, the upper ball joint is a little intimidating (trying to get it to pressed back in or something?)

Luckily I don't use the truck as my daily driver, so I've got a little time to order parts and research it

94x4

Although the new tires will hold the suspension level for a while due to their shape, they will become worn from driving (either on the inside or out depending on which balljoints are bad, sorry, don't remember which) , so you do want to do the R&R soon.
You just need to use a "ball joint separator" or "fork" to pop it loose from the "A" arm, either of which will be carried by the local parts store as "Loaners", so you can do the job right there in their parking lot (just pick a "good" spot, i.e., not in front of the front door).
You should be able to use the "Search" feature of this site to find all of the info that you'll need & probally some cool tips to make it easier.
Good luck & have fun!

TacomaTRD

I found that tightening the large nut just to the right of the inner tie rod in this pic https://www.yotatech.com/forums/show...30&postcount=1, that my left hand rack play is less... Not sure, my rack might be going. But there is no more play now...