steering problems after 3: body lift

[ggpacific]

Does anyone know if you have to install a steering shaft extender when using a 3: body lift? I just finished my TRAILMASTER lift that did NOT come with an extender and the destructions also say it was not required on the explorer. However I have classic problems such as stiffness an not returning to center, also it appears that the rubber u-joint is comming apart. I called trailmaster and was told that the extender was not required and they made no such part for a 93 explorer.Is it possible that the explorer ltd. is already a little taller and by adding a 3" body lift I might be steching the steering by 4"? any info would be great. Thanks!

 

[rich98sport]

I installed the extender for mine it a 98 though i used the ranger kit from PA My steering shaft is telescopic but i put it on anyway. Steering is a little looser but not much.

 

[YW84U]

Deja Vu! I installed a 3" BL this past spring - I have the extension on my '91, and had a hell of a time to put it in. After it was installed, I noticed it didn't return to centre, and had a terrible 'clunk' when rotating the steering wheel.

I found that my steering shaft did not slide in and out of the assembly; I soaked it in Moovit spray for a day or two, and began to tap it inwards with a # 2 hammer. After finally getting the shaft free to slide in/out, I took a chance and hooked it back up without the extension. What a difference! Returns to center, feels snug, no noises or hangups! The rag joint at the bottom seemed OK for wear, and didn't appear to suffer from the new angles created by the lift.

Make sure your shaft can slide easily and hook it up like that. If it still causes problems, let me know - I have the extension still and just so happen also to live in Beautiful BC!

 

[ggpacific]

Thanks to everyone for your help.! Turns out I needed the steering shaft that has a steel u joint at the top of the steering column not the rubber/metal joint that comes on some explorers. The type with rubber breakdown and do not extend as far and thats causes the steering problems and the rubber breakdown from being over stretched with the body lift. Thanks again.