caster problem, getting mixed suggestions on how to correct

[nspctr1]

On my 73 when I first got it it steered all over the road. scarey as hell. The PO had installed a shackle lift. I replaced the TRE's, rebuilt the center arm and still had problems. I installed 4* shims and 99% of my steering problems went away. When I started I also had -3* caster. You may want to check your other steering components while your there.

 

[cjgoode]

Pictures, are we sure the shims are correct, so many people put the fat end in the rear.

 

[FJ40Jim]

I know that this is going to date me as an old man, but 60's and early 70s US land yachts had stock suspensions with negative caster. Maybe that is why they handled like boats.

Ahh, that explains the numb steering w/ no real return to center.

 

[Dutchman]

Caster Problem continued

Sorry I haven’t gotten back with pictures yet... Here they are.
Thanks everyone with your input. I was sure I was being told wrong just because it just didn't make any common sense to me. to leave my axle at -3 degrees. As you can see i have what I’m guessing are 4 degree shims with thick side facing forward. They may be 3. The shackles are pretty long with a measurement at 5 1/4 inches from bolt to bolt.

Should I put larger shims in and if so 6, 8 degrees?

Will this affect my drive shaft?

I'm sure new springs would probably solve this, but i was hoping to give myself a little more time to save up some $$$.

Thanks again for everyone’s ideas and or comments.
Dutchman

 

[Splangy]

It's kinda hard to tell from the photos, but those shims look kinda thin (if the thick end is in the front). Those may only be ~2 degree shims.

 

[John Smith]

Ditch those bent overly long shackles for factory length and your caster issue will be resolved.

 

[Pin_Head]

Ditch those bent overly long shackles for factory length and your caster issue will be resolved.

Exactly

 

[Slow Poke]

I think you'll need 6 degree shims for those shackles if you want to keep em. Those look like 2 degree's to me. X3 on the shackle switch.

 

[Dutchman]

I know that these shackles are junk and overtightened to boot! If I replace them with factory shackles won't that impact my tire clearance?

 

[Dutchman]

Castor issue continued

Here are a few more pics of the actual shims, I tried to get a ruler next to it as snapped pics, not the best representation though.

 

[rockcod]

My 72 did the same thing when we first got it. Have you checked the spring/frame bushings, TRE's, center arm, steering box and wheel bearings for excessive play? All these gave my 40 a white knuckle ride.

 

[Dutchman]

Caster issues continued

Thanks for everyones thoughts and ideas. I hope to do some work on my suspension this weekend!

 

[bigpig]

they dont look like they have any sort of taper??

 

[Dutchman]

I replaced the 4 degree shims to 6 degree shims yesterday and took it for a drive around the ranch on various dirt roads of all conditions and the difference is night and day! Thanks everyone for your valuable input. The cruiser drives much straighter and without throwing me into ruts. What a pleaser to dive! I'm in the process of saving up for some new leaf springs and shackles, but this will work for now.
Those guys a 4 wheel off road parts would have kept me from making this switch so THANK GOD FOR IH8MUD! The one guy there told me quote, " I've owned more Toyotas in one month than most people have owned in their entire lifetime!".
I guess he may own them, but apparently does not work on them and I guess it's my fault not to follow up with asking that question.

Thanks again for your knowledge and ideas,
Dutchman

 

[rockcod]

Nice looking 40 you have there, and I really like that top!!!

 

[Dutchman]

Thanks! It's an OCD Top that ocdbeetle put together for me this summer.
He does one hell of a job!