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Steering/suspension issues

Tiny
JDGSHRED
  • MEMBER
  • 2009 TOYOTA TACOMA
  • 4.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 145,000 MILES
Hello, I recently replaced a lower ball joint, outer tie rod ends, and sway bar links and had an alignment done afterward. It seems like there were no major repairs done prior to me owning the truck. Even before the repairs it feels as if the steering radius has declined. And when I am cornering or turning it seems like the truck is floating and that I have little control. When I go over bumps the steering wheel will jerk. I have not noticed any sounds or anything.
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Wednesday, November 11th, 2020 AT 8:23 PM

11 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

That's odd. Tell me, is there any play in the steering wheel itself? I'm asking because there are two joints that can wear and become loose in the steering column. The intermediate steering shaft which connects the steering wheel to the rack is what I'm referring to. I attached a pic below for you to get a better idea. Check to see if there is excessive play in either of the joints.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Wednesday, November 11th, 2020 AT 8:32 PM
Tiny
JDGSHRED
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It seems like there is a little play, but I think the play has always been there. I will look at the steering column and see. I was also told I have an inner tie rod with some play in it. Would that cause the problems I described though?
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Wednesday, November 11th, 2020 AT 9:27 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
I have to be honest, I don't see how the tie rod would reduce the steering radius. It could allow the vehicle to wonder. I don't know how bad it is, but please keep in mind that it is a steering component. If it breaks, the wheel on that side of the vehicle will no longer be connected to the steering.

The idea that you had it aligned leads me to believe the steering components would have been checked. At least, that is how I was taught to do it. If something is worn, such as a tie rod, the alignment really can't be properly done.

Do me a favor (if possible). Record yourself testing the steering intermediate shaft joints. Also, show me how much play is in the steering wheel from left to right before you feel tension (engine off).

I will watch for your reply.

Joe
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 6:23 PM
Tiny
JDGSHRED
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Here is the steering play:
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 8:00 PM
Tiny
JDGSHRED
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
Here is some of the steering shaft. I will take one more video.
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 8:01 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

I can't see the steering shaft in the second video. In the first, you indicated a dead spot. What do you mean by that? Also, with the engine off, does the steering wheel have play back and forth?
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 8:09 PM
Tiny
JDGSHRED
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What I mean by a dead spot is, I am moving the steering wheel but in a certain spot when the steering wheel is being turned the wheel does not move.
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 8:35 PM
Tiny
JDGSHRED
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Got three for you.
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 9:08 PM
Tiny
JDGSHRED
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  • 10 POSTS
2
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 9:09 PM
Tiny
JDGSHRED
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
In this video I was explaining that the previous owner had put that zip tie there in attempt to remove the Tacoma “drop” sensation when you’re going off road.
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Thursday, November 12th, 2020 AT 9:12 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

Thanks for the videos. However, everything appears to be tight and not something that would cause the issues you experience. The only other thing I can think of is if there are control arm bushing worn. Have you checked them? See pic 1

Also, on some of these trucks, there are actually steering stops that are adjustable. If they are over extended, that could be causing the steering radius issue. If it has them, you should see them above the lower ball joints. The steering knuckle will actually touch them when fully turned.

I just had an after thought. What kind of tires are on the truck? Do they have the correct air pressure, are they the same size, is the tread good?

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, November 13th, 2020 AT 7:15 PM

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