Up&Down

1995 Tacoma 2.4L 2WD

After I replaced all four ball joints and sway bar bushings/links and tightened everything up I noticed my steering wheel is a bit off center. Before, it was dead center.

Is this indicative of needing an alignment?

It is riding the exact same as before the ball joint replacement. Tracks straight as an arrow.

If the truck tracks straight with no pull could it still need an alignment?

Some people say always get alignment some say don't.

What do y'all think?

I just have to say that this forum rocks. It has saved me so much money. Thanks to the folks who keep it running and all the knowledge folks give out for free.

eric-the-red

I would get an alignment done, something has obviously moved if the wheel isn't centred.

xxxtreme22r

Did you have the pitman arm off when doing the BJ's? If so then you may be off a tooth or two.

wait a sec. Nevermind, tacomas are steering racks.

Up&Down

I don't know what the pittman arm is.

Control arm? This is a 2WD.

What would make the steering wheel off center after bj replacement?

I didn't touch tie rod end lock-nuts.

xxxtreme22r

see above edit. Don't mind me being a dumb arse again. haha. Tacomas are rack and pinion not push/pull.

Up&Down

I'm trying to understand what made the steering wheel off center after bj replacement.

And if this is a sign of mis-alignment.

Should I just get an alignment check and be done with it? I'd love to save the money if possible.

Thanks.

Gerdo

Please tell me that you used Toyota OE balljoints!

They could have been cast a little different than the stock ones (where the steering tierod end connects).

I would get an alignment.

Up&Down

No, not OEM. I like the aftermarket for the zerk fitting it provides instead of the "sealed for life" option.

Thanks for the input y'all. I think an alignment is in order.

Are there options for an alignment or is it just a general procedure an auto shop does?

Teuf

Pull the steering wheel and recenter it.

Up&Down

Pulling the steering wheel and re-centering it was my original plan for the weekend along with an O2 sensor replacement.

Thanks. I'll just keep an eye on tire wear.

Gerdo

Don't pull the wheel to center it. Get it aligned, it is obvious that it has changed.

Keep an eye on any non-Toyota balljoints. They are known to not hold up as wall as Toyota BJs. Some wear out in just 20,000 miles. My top quality aftermarket ones did.

Teuf

My bad, I thought you got an alignment.
don't reposition the steering wheel, get an alignment.

Up&Down

I did get an alignment an it needed it. Thanks to all for the push in the right direction. New suspension parts and an alignment and it rides smooth and quiet.