Do I need a steering stabilizer?

[Roscoe95]

Hi all.

My 1972 with a mild 1.5" lift, power steering, and 32" KO2's rides pretty well but I don't have a steering stabilizer. Is this a must? Does not look like it would take much to add.

Thoughts?

 

[blubuckaroo]

My '77 came with a steering stabilizer. When I replaced the "Y" steering with a "T" I didn't bother putting it back on. All went well for several years then suddenly It had a single unforgettable episode "death wobble."
Related or not, I bought a new steering stabilizer for it.

 

[sykanr0ng]

No it is not a 'must have'.

If your Bronco drives well without one don't bother adding it.

 

[bronconut73]

They can be a safety device. They absorb some shock that could yank the wheel out of your hands. It also absorbs some jolts and vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted to the steering box.

 

[savage]

They can be a safety device. They absorb some shock that could yank the wheel out of your hands. It also absorbs some jolts and vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted to the steering box.

I agree with bronconut73, it does absorb and helps if you hit a pot hole, or a ruff road. Do you need it, that's all up to you, I personally like them, some people don't use them.

 

[broncodriver99]

I always run them. Only $30 if you still have the factory brackets. They do serve a purpose.

 

[RADO]

You should run one to protect the steering box long term. Cheap insurance imo.

 

[SteveL]

I haven't run one in years with 35s. The things I've read and heard recommend it if you run larger than 35s. If your getting death wobble or other issues with 33s or smaller it's just a band aid trying to hide other problems. If you're running 32s and mostly on road it probably drives better without it. Back when the 66 had 31s I took it off for something and drove nicer without the extra drag on the steering. It might have been before I put on the ps.

 

[bronconut73]

I remember removing a "Heckethorn"? steering stabilizer and replaced it with a Monroe in the early 80's it made a big difference ....I only did it because I was looking for a steering issue that ended up being the drag link, but the Monroe felt much better than the Heckethorn did.

 

[Skiddy]

You should run one to protect the steering box long term. Cheap insurance imo.

that would be the only reason I would run one, however I don't use one

 

[Broncobowsher]

I ran one, I would run one again.
On the street you should never feel it. On the trail I noticed it the one time the bracket broke off. It would catch a rock or root and snap the steering wheel violently.
If going hydro assist, don't run one, the ram will work as one.
They do work to protect the steering box, and the frame from shock loads. Your shoulders can think you as well.

 

[gr8scott]

I tried running mine without one, but with the power steering and quick ratio box it was way too sensitive.

 

[sprdv1]

I agree with bronconut73, it does absorb and helps if you hit a pot hole, or a ruff road. Do you need it, that's all up to you, I personally like them, some people don't use them.

X2.. personal preference...

 

[ntsqd]

I think that you can "get away" without running one, but that you should run one. Ford put it there for a good reason, one that got the cost control Accountants to sign off on it. Those folks pinch every 1/10th of a penny. Ford still puts one on live axle steering, as does every other OEM that I can think of. Until that reason is known, and known to no longer apply to how you use the truck (like ram assist as mentioned above) I would continue to have one.

 

[toddz69]

I remember removing a "Heckethorn"? steering stabilizer and replaced it with a Monroe in the early 80's it made a big difference ....I only did it because I was looking for a steering issue that ended up being the drag link, but the Monroe felt much better than the Heckethorn did.

Heckethorn "Big Yellow"!! I wanted one, but couldn't buy it on my junior high kid budget.

Todd Z.