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Nevadastars's avatar
Nevadastars
Explorer
May 28, 2015

Question for those with aftermarket steering stabilizers

I had a rather lengthy tread about play in the steering wheel a few weeks ago. A lot of folks recommended getting caster shims and have it re-aligned. Got that all done to the tune of close to $700. It does drive better with more caster, and trucks do not seem to bother it as much. But, I still have a lot of steering wheel play, close to an inch. The rig only has 12k miles on it.

Anyway, I am curious if those of you with Safe-T-Plus or Roadmaster stabilizers noticed less play in the wheel. I see great reviews for both of them, but haven't seen anyone mention if it helped with the steering wheel play. Just trying to tighten it up if at all possible. Thanks in advance
  • I installed a Roadmaster stabilizer on mine and haven't noticed any difference at all.
  • If while standing still, you have play in your steering wheel as you described, a wheel alignment would not cure that. Nor, would a front stabilizer. Back in the old days, that steering play had to be adjusted by turning a screw in the steering box, as someone else suggested, but I don't know if newer vehicles allow you to do that.
  • Actually guys, like I said above, I just spent nearly $700 having the front end checked out by the most reputable RV alignment shop within 100 miles. They installed the caster shims, to give it over 5 degrees of positive caster on both sides. It is better, but still has the play in the wheel. They said all front end parts are fine. Again, this rig only has 12k on it.

    I called the shop that did the work (70 miles away) and told them about the play, and they said I could put a Safe-T-Plus on it. But I was hoping someone here could tell me if it actually helps.
  • I have a 2013 coachman with with ford chassie and I installed a steer safe devise on my unit. works great. But u could have a problem in steering box, sounds like a lot of play in wheel. better have front end loked at before adding this or any other devise.
  • This link recommends the Safe-T-Plus because it is both a stabilizer and a damper. It will improve steering, but its primary function is to prevent the MH from ripping the steering wheel out of your hands during a panic situation.

    I would ignore the mileage on the odometer and recommend taking it to a heavy truck shop and having all of the steering examined (rods, joints, box, etc) and replace parts as needed - but use better that OE parts.

    For me the handling problem was with the ball joints. They were shot. Replacing them made a big improvement in handling.