Poor Steering In 4X4

[azredliner]

I just got another 1984 Toyota and for some reason, I lose control of the steering when I lock in the hubs. Locked out, it steers fine. Locked in, it goes where it wants to.

I do not have to engage the 4X4 on the transfer case for this to happen, just locking the hubs makes it all screwy.

The torque rod is connected and there are no cracks in the frame near the torque rod bracket or the steering box.

I'm starting to suspect a busted front axle.

Just to cover all bases, the truck is stock with a 5 inch lift. No High-Steer, yet.

[bbagwell]

I wonder if just the poor steering angles because of the 5 inch lift is causing it. With the hubs locked and the front end turning causing drag it might just be enough to make it wander all over.

[azredliner]

I'll findout. Next week I'll be putting High-Steer on it.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a383/azredliner/My%20Trucks/ToyotaTech004.jpg

[bbagwell]

High steer is on my to-do list. My bank account isn't cooperating though :(.

[fourwd1]

The 5" lift could cause a lot of steering problems (wandering, darting) due to bad caster and drag link angles, both which would cause steering problems, but they would be present whether or not the hubs were locked.

[stump runner]

Is it possible that the DPO (dreaded previous owner) put in a locker, spool or welded the spiders in the front diff? Try locking only 1 hub in 2wd, then try to turn the drive shaft. The free hub side shaft should turn. Jack up the truck in 4wd. turn one front wheel be hand. the other should turn backwards. if it won't turn put truck in 2wd and repeat the test. with a spool it will turn the same direction.

GOOD LUCK!

[Oatmeal]

Is it possible that the DPO (dreaded previous owner) put in a locker, spool or welded the spiders in the front diff?That was my first thought, too----------Hans

[azredliner]

I'm putting high steering on this week. I got everything but the hose and I was wondering if it was really necessary to change ps hoses. I changed the one on my red '84 because that is how I do things, but was it manditory? I want the truck back on the trail ASAP. I'll get one on my next pay day if I don't have to buy one sooner.

[bbagwell]

I have never heard of it being mandatory to change the hoses. Personally I would run it with the old ones and change them later if you want.

[azredliner]

I have never heard of it being mandatory to change the hoses. Personally I would run it with the old ones and change them later if you want.

Thanks B.