Bilstein Steering Damper December 05, 2017, 07:22:32 pm Somewhat recently we replaced the OEM steering damper (55,000 miles) with a Bilstein Steering Damper. As I was doing an on-line price check this evening (a 60 day credit card benefit), I found a decent price for it at Amazon.com: Bilstein 24-174534 5100 Series Steering Damper Front 5100 Series... . We've driven about 200 miles with our new Bilstein and so we have a little bit of feedback. This steering damper did not make a noticeable difference while driving in town or on smooth roads, which is what I expected. However, IMO there was a marked improvement with the Bilstein vs. the 55,000 mile OEM damper on rough and uneven roads. The Bilstein did an excellent job of controlling sudden steering wheel jerks after hitting potholes, bumps, etc. This steering damper is a direct replacement for the OEM, uses the same bolts and nuts, and was a simple swap. Hope this is helpful. 2 Likes As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Re: Bilstein Steering Damper Reply #1 – December 06, 2017, 12:09:48 am ED Thanks for bringing this ignored suspension part to our attention.Our LD's steering stabilizer was defective, at 64,000 miles, and replaced with a Monroe Magnum stabilizer.Amazon.com: Monroe SC2955 Magnum Steering Damper: AutomotiveNow that is has 40,000 miles of wear, it would be a good time to remove one end of it and test it.When pushing the shaft in and then pulling out, it should be smooth and even, without any slipping or looseness.It needs to provide an even resistance through the entire cycle.While the Bilstein stabilizer is more expensive, it might last the life of the vehicle, worth it if you plan on owning your LD for a long time.Larry As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Re: Bilstein Steering Damper Reply #2 – December 06, 2017, 08:12:50 am I installed the same Bilstein steering damper in 2015 and noticed a definite improvement. Of course I had 120,000 miles on the original Ford damper so it was pretty tired.I was surprised at how easy the project was.Steve K.
Re: Bilstein Steering Damper Reply #3 – December 21, 2017, 12:01:14 am After reading Ed's report, I decided to check our LD's stabilizer last week. With just over 40,000 mile on the Monroe HD replacement stabilizer, it was already bad with a good size dead spot.It wasn't doing anything positive in this condition.Two days later, Amazon delivered a new Bilstein stabilizer and the steering feels much tighter now.Hope this stabilizer lasts a little longer than the previous two. Amazingly, with 106,000 miles, the front end is still tight, only the stabilizer(s) and sway bar bushings have needed replacement.I credit this to the strength of the design and frequent lubing. Grease fittings were installed in the lower and upper ball joints when the LD was new. If you have not done this, have your mechanic do so at the next oil change, it's well worth the two dollars in parts. Lube them at every oil change, along with the factory installed grease fittings. This one mod could save you hundreds down the road.Larry 2 Likes
Topic: Bilstein Steering Damper (Read 299 times)
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Topic: Bilstein Steering Damper (Read 299 times)
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