Looking under our rig for the plastic shield commented on in the other post I noticed the damper on ours. I don't notice a problem with our steering but I wonder if I should replace this due to what appears to be a leak? We have around 62K on the rig.
Jim
It looks to me like it’s starting to leak and due for replacement. They’re not very expensive and could make a noticeable improvement.
How easy are they to replace as a DIY?
Jim
I suspect that even you could do it Jim.
How easy are they to replace as a DIY?
Easy, the hardest part is getting under the front of the engine.
The hardest part is finding the right size plastic pin.
Plastic pins, in various sizes, are available in most auto parts stores.
Larry
Easy, the hardest part is getting under the front of the engine.
The hardest part is finding the right size plastic pin.
Plastic pins, in various sizes, are available in most auto parts stores.
Larry
From that I gather it isn't just a matter of unbolting the old and bolting on the new and all the necessary parts aren't included with the damper.
Jim
From that I gather it isn't just a matter of unbolting the old and bolting on the new and all the necessary parts aren't included with the damper.
On our '09 MB, the replacement was "unbolting and bolting". As Larry said, the hardest part was just getting on the ground. The existing bolts are used on the new damper. It's necessary to turn the steering so that the damper is compressed to the same size as the replacement which is explained in the simple installation instructions.
Btw, we installed a Bilstein steering damper for about $75 and free shipping from Amazon. We didn't have a plastic pin. Maybe Larry was referring to Piece of plastic hanging down at front (http://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?topic=31798.0) ?
Hope this helps.
From that I gather it isn't just a matter of unbolting the old and bolting on the new and all the necessary parts aren't included with the damper.
Jim
Nope; I replaced the factory damper with a Bilstein unit and you use the Ford factory hardware. You will have to take a few measurements to make sure it is positioned correctly. Here's the unit to shop for:
Product Search Detail - BILSTEIN (http://www.bilstein.com/us/en/product-search-detail/?ItemId=8231239709451050898&YearId=1595507292543362101&MakeId=8473928815203712375&ModelId=8038757829880313628&SubModelId=1537043782094671959)
Charles
Easy, the hardest part is getting under the front of the engine.
The hardest part is finding the right size plastic pin.
Plastic pins, in various sizes, are available in most auto parts stores.
Larry
What is the plastic pin and where does it go?
Jim
We just had ours replaced. We bought it at NAPA for around $40 and our local "friend" mechanic only charged us $20. to install.
What is the plastic pin and where does it go?
The plastic shield has two holes, where the push pins are inserted and then pushed into holes in the LD's metal frame, locking the shield in place.
Here is a link to a collection of pins that show some of the various sizes and types available.
Amazon.com: Uolor 415 Pcs Push Retainer Kit with Fastener Remover, Auto Push... (https://www.amazon.com/Uolor-Retainer-Fastener-Interior-Assortment/dp/B0745D277N?SubscriptionId=AKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q&tag=duckduckgo-d-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B0745D277N)
Larry
Looking under our rig for the plastic shield commented on in the other post I noticed the damper on ours. I don't notice a problem with our steering but I wonder if I should replace this due to what appears to be a leak? We have around 62K on the rig.
Jim
Looks to me as though you have weather damage to the shaft attachment, and quite a bit of rust on everything. A thorough inspection of the front end would be in order to see if components, brackets, etc., are in need of more immediate attention.
Steve
Looks to me as though you have weather damage to the shaft attachment, and quite a bit of rust on everything. A thorough inspection of the front end would be in order to see if components, brackets, etc., are in need of more immediate attention.
Steve
Thanks, Steve, It was thoroughly inspected May of 2016 by All Wheel (http://www.allwheelinc.com/) and I plan on having them check that again in a couple of months.
Jim
I had replaced the original damper with one from roadmaster and am happy with it. to me it makes steering feel more positive.
Roadmaster Inc. - Tow Bars, Braking Systems & RV Accessories (http://www.roadmasterinc.com/products/rss/reflex.html)