Post Metalcloak LCA install

[Rmag24]

I had the MetalCloak lower control arms installed today at an alignment shop. So far it doesn’t seem like it’s really changed any of the drifting wander loose steering issues I was having. It did however eliminate the vibrations I was getting at around 50-60 MPH. I’m thinking the caster is is to low as it’s listed at being 4 degrees. Any suggestions ?

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[JeepJLU402]

Isn’t the jam nut supposed to be on the frame side? And why did they zip tie the brake line bracket to the control arm? I don’t think those are installed per Metalcloak instructions.

 

[Some Random Guy]

Yeah, those are installed backwards.

 

[Buddy Lee]

First of all your Metalcloak lower control arms are installed backwards. The adjustment bolt goes towards the center of the jeep and the fixed bushing goes into the axle. You need to have the shop swap the arm locations and rotate them into the right orientation. Second you need to add more caster. 6 degrees seems to be the sweet spot between improving the JL's driving characteristics and not exacerbating pinion angles (can create vibrations) in the front end.

 

[Buddy Lee]

Here is how they should look.

 

[nsfw_andy]

First of all your Metalcloak lower control arms are installed backwards. The adjustment bolt goes towards the center of the jeep and the fixed bushing goes into the axle. You need to have the shop swap the arm locations and rotate them into the right orientation. Second you need to add more caster. 6 degrees seems to be the sweet spot between improving the JL's driving characteristics and not exacerbating pinion angles (can create vibrations) in the front end.

Front driveshaft doesn't spin in 2HI because of the FAD so you shouldn't get any vibes unless you are have the full time 4x4 setup.

 

[Rubiwoo]

That's why I try to do my own work...

 

[Buddy Lee]

Front driveshaft doesn't spin in 2HI because of the FAD so you shouldn't get any vibes unless you are have the full time 4x4 setup.

You are correct but it can vibrate in 4-high because of the higher speeds it affords over low range.

 

[Zandcwhite]

Front driveshaft doesn't spin in 2HI because of the FAD so you shouldn't get any vibes unless you are have the full time 4x4 setup.

Which is why I run mid 7⁰s, it drives better and I don't get any vibes even in 4hi at 60mph+ out in the desert.

 

[somedude922]

Ouch. They are installed backwards. They are side specific too. 4 degrees is way to low, aim for 6 degrees. Paint mark those control arm bolts...I bet they are not torqued to spec, and may back off.

 

[roaniecowpony]

Apparently the installer didn't read the instructions.

 

[Rmag24]

Appreciate everyone’s help. I returned Monday morning and explained that they are backwards and the manager blamed the fact that there were no instructions in the box. He also tried to say that it doesn’t matter which direction they are installed. After some discussion he agreed to swap them. I now have to find another alignment shop to check the specs again as I suspect they didn’t increase the caster like I asked.

I do feel the steering has tightened up but noticed that when shifting the wheel from center the right side has more play in it then the left.

Should I shoot for another alignment first or buy anything else? I’m considering some sort of HD steering setup with adjustable track bars.

Thanks

 

[Hucke_250]

Appreciate everyone’s help. I returned Monday morning and explained that they are backwards and the manager blamed the fact that there were no instructions in the box. He also tried to say that it doesn’t matter which direction they are installed. After some discussion he agreed to swap them. I now have to find another alignment shop to check the specs again as I suspect they didn’t increase the caster like I asked.

I do feel the steering has tightened up but noticed that when shifting the wheel from center the right side has more play in it then the left.

Should I shoot for another alignment first or buy anything else? I’m considering some sort of HD steering setup with adjustable track bars.

Thanks

If you don’t have a torque wrench I’d take it to another shop to have the caster and alignment dialed in. I’d also have them go over the steering components with a torque wrench. Make sure they provide you with an alignment printout.

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