Stiff steering after body lift

[detherth]

Ive got a 97 4wd ext cab and just did a 3" body lift and the steering extension seemed to long but i ended up adjusting the steering column under the dash to fit it in, but still is tough to turn and creaks the whole time. Not sure if its a angle problem or to tight with the extension. Anyone have a problem like this?

Also anyone have custom bumbers built to accomodate the body lift instead of using the junky plates they sent where they want me to drill and cut the frame and brackets?

 

[bronco2fan]

I didn't have to use the extension on my lift so I don't know. Have you lubed it up? Is it tightened up good and not slipping? Are you sure it's not binding in the engine compartment? Can you see any rubbing anywhere? Why didn't you just get the extensions for the bumbers ? I left mine at stock height. Hope this helps a little

 

[detherth]

Yeah i definetly had to use it it was seperated and too far apart. I think its under the dash thats squeaking and im not sure why its so stiff to turn.. The lift came with bumper extension plates but to install them i have to drill new holes in the oem plates and notch the frame.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Mine had lumpy steering until I got the rag joint (rubber u-joint type thing) on the engine side of the firewall exercised enough for its new range of motion.

 

[Elutheros]

I had to swap out my steering shaft for a 1991 with a universal joint. I tried new rag joints, but they just made it worse. I think that because I installed new body mounts at the same time as the BL (3") it made the problem worse.