steering not returning to center

[grandon]

hey guys,
I have had an issue with my steering wheel not returning to center since I put my lift on some years back. To better explain, when I make a turn I have to steer the truck back to strait. Does this make any sense??

2 1/2 lift
33X12.5 all terrains (New)
new 2.8 turn steering box
power steering (canned ham)
All front end components new
drop pitman arm
7 degree c-bushings
caster 3.5 degrees

any ideas??
Mike

 

[chuck]

If you are sure the caster is +3.5 did you also replace the ball joints or steering box, sounds like something is too tight or the casster is -3.5
Oops, I see the box is new, will it turn freely with drag link disconnected?

 

[broncnaz]

Welcome
Couple of ideas come to mind. Steering linkage is not quite right due to the lift most 2.5in lifts dont use drop pitman arms or trac bar brackets which pulls the axle to the passenger side a little. which also causes the steering box to be off center. While your caster angle sounds good it should be enough to make the wheels return to center but maybe you also have a little toe issue.
Another issue that may be working against the steering is ball joints or king pins are to tight. If they were recently replaced I would recheck them to see if the knuckles turn with 26lbs or less effort.

 

[surfer-b]

Check all things listed above and if all checks good I have found the best return to center and driving is when I can get the caster set ~ +8* and camber ~ +.5*, to get these numbers you will prob have to use bushings in the top ball joints on the knuckles. Moog part # K936 is for the 1.5* bushings. Some on here don't like them but I have never had any probs with them.

 

[m_m70]

Thanks for the info guys.......
Thanks for the welcome as well. I have been a member here for some time though. Shoot I think I made the first purchase off of the parts for sale forum from Jon over ten years ago! ;D
Anyway, I have had my truck in storage for a few years now and drive it only once a month or so just to keep things lubed and happy. Was planning on restoring a 37 Ford but the wife brought up the fact that I loved my Bronco and why not get that back to road worthiness.
So I have been getting the garage ready and figured to start with the steering issue.
I will check out what advice you guys gave and see if any of that helps.
Thanks again and it's good to be back in Bronco land!!
Mike