Full steering replacement

[Chubrocker]

Was wondering if an average joe with youtube mechanical certification can install the following with hand tools only:
track bar
tie rod
drag link
adjustable lower control arms (to get more caster)
steering stabilizer (feel pretty good about this)

I've never done anything like this but it all seems pretty straightforward. I've tackled basics like oil change/diff fluid/running boards/etc. but nothing on suspension previously.

Love my JL but the steering sucks, so took the plunge and bought the full steer smarts kit/teraflex stabilizer and thinking about adding on Metalcloak LCAs. Any tips or words of wisdom on the overall approach (order of installation, etc.)

Once done I'll get an alignment and report back on the results.

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[saltyaggie]

Everything but the lower control arms are pretty easy. The frame side LCA bolts are EXTREMELY tight and took me a while to get loose (took a 24" breaker bar with a 3' cheater for mine). A good impact wrench would make this a much easier job.

 

[roaniecowpony]

More castor will give you the runs. LOL

If you're chasing the wandering/busy steering issue, caster is probably not the problem. But, by changing those components out with aftermarket parts, you will likely get stiffer bushings in them, which may reduce some of the front axle undesired movement That may improve the steering. The 4.8 degree caster spec'd for our Jeeps is consistent with other similar designed front solid axle vehicles. In fact, too much caster has been blamed for death wobble in other vehicles.

I believe the issue where the steering doesnt self-center is linked to the overly stiff steering stablizers which are a band-aid to a steering system free-play problem.

 

[Rock Krawler Suspension]

The only thing to note would be with some of those components, you'll be dealing with large jam nuts that the average guy won't have wrenches for. The lower control arms for example, will likely need a 1 7/8" crows foot with a torque wrench that can handle the recommended torque specs

 

[Sheepjeep]

Yes you can I did my whole lift, new adjustable front and rear track bars and new unpper and lower front and rear control arms using hand tools and floor jacks.

Take your time and double check all your measurements and set the length on a bench before installing. Make sure the control arms are even, tie rod and drag link is the same as stock.


Also get wrenches for jam nuts i have this set because of them, and really tighten them down.
https://m.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/wrenches/6-pc-sae-jumbo-combination-wrench-set-61513.html

Get a good torque wrench

After all said and done got to a good off road shop with alignment machine to dial it in further.

 

[Chubrocker]

The only thing to note would be with some of those components, you'll be dealing with large jam nuts that the average guy won't have wrenches for. The lower control arms for example, will likely need a 1 7/8" crows foot with a torque wrench that can handle the recommended torque specs

Thanks for the note. Funny you replied, I'm heading towards the Rock Krawler LCA's - they come with good reviews!

 

[jimmydarnell]

Thanks for the note. Funny you replied, I'm heading towards the Rock Krawler LCA's - they come with good reviews!

Update? Still have the steering/wondering issues?

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