Steering stabilizer

[gearjammer88]

I have seen a couple posts, and I am curious myself, What is the actual purpose of a steering stabilizer, and when does it actually play a role in the vehicle performance? I am running 9" lift and 38's and on the street have felt no difference in steerability or driveability, is this something more needed off road? Just curious..... :huh:

 

[Justshootme84]

A steering dampener is supposed to help reduce the tendency for the tires/wheels to wander, or pull to the side. A single one came stock on some trucks, and some mfg's recommend one for tires up to 35" tall. They suggest two for taller tires. I've used one on a 86 Ford Ranger with a 4" lift and 33's, and it needed one to help control the steering. I used none with 35's on my 84 Bronco. IF your rig rides fine without one, then your steering is in good condition and your tires hold the road. If your steering or tires are not quite so good, a stabilizer/dampener may help a little. IT just reduces the side-to-side movement of the wheels. JSM84