Steering Damper May 26, 2018, 03:56:01 pm 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
Re: Steering Damper Reply #1 – May 26, 2018, 04:08:32 pm 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.
Re: Steering Damper Reply #4 – May 26, 2018, 06:57:17 pm Quote from: Jim & Gayle - May 26, 2018, 04:31:18 pmHow 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
Re: Steering Damper Reply #5 – May 26, 2018, 07:42:40 pm Quote from: Larry W - May 26, 2018, 06:57:17 pmEasy, 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.LarryFrom 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
Re: Steering Damper Reply #6 – May 26, 2018, 08:42:51 pm Quote from: Jim & Gayle - May 26, 2018, 07:42:40 pmFrom 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 ? Hope this helps. 1 Likes
Re: Steering Damper Reply #7 – May 26, 2018, 08:51:29 pm Quote from: Jim & Gayle - May 26, 2018, 07:42:40 pmFrom 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.JimNope; 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 - BILSTEINCharles 1 Likes
Re: Steering Damper Reply #8 – May 27, 2018, 11:32:43 am Quote from: Larry W - May 26, 2018, 06:57:17 pmEasy, 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.LarryWhat is the plastic pin and where does it go?Jim
Re: Steering Damper Reply #9 – May 31, 2018, 07:16:05 pm We just had ours replaced. We bought it at NAPA for around $40 and our local "friend" mechanic only charged us $20. to install.
Re: Steering Damper Reply #10 – June 02, 2018, 11:33:08 am Quote from: Jim & Gayle - May 27, 2018, 11:32:43 amWhat 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...Larry As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Re: Steering Damper Reply #11 – June 02, 2018, 12:28:49 pm Quote from: Jim & Gayle - May 26, 2018, 03:56:01 pmLooking 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.JimLooks 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
Re: Steering Damper Reply #12 – June 02, 2018, 01:58:08 pm Quote from: Steve - June 02, 2018, 12:28:49 pmLooks 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.SteveThanks, Steve, It was thoroughly inspected May of 2016 by All Wheel and I plan on having them check that again in a couple of months.Jim
Re: Steering Damper Reply #13 – June 02, 2018, 06:52:46 pm 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