Steering feels "heavy" after ARB bumper installed

[chuckscap]

Hi all I absolutely love my new ARB deluxe bumper and Slee did an amazing job installing it. I have noticed the steering feels kind of "heavy" and less responsive after it was put on. Is that normal? It's a sublte thing. I know it's a lot of weight at the extreme front of the car. I didn't get a winch for that very reason (also most of the places I 4wheel have very few trees till I'm almost where I want to be). The front height is the same. Could it be I have some slightly worn front end components that the bumper is "pointing out" There is no play in the steering wheel. If the steering being a bit heavy is the price I pay for the new bumper , it's worth it!

Thanks!

Chuck

 

[Kabanstva]

The front height is the same because AHC will level out the truck no matter how much weight you add to it if your sensors are working correctly. Rest assured the front end is significantly heavier with this bumper compared to stock. That’s why your steering feels this way.

 

[chuckscap]

Thanks! I had the AHC removed and replaced with an OME 1 1/2 Medium Lift when I bought my 2000 LX470 for $9600 ten years ago. The AHC was gone and I had a 30 day up to $3000 repair credit which I used immediately lol Slee cranked up the torsion bars to maintain the same height it was before the bumper was installed.

 

[Kabanstva]

Thanks! I had the AHC removed and replaced with an OME 1 1/2 Medium Lift when I bought my 2000 LX470 for $9600 ten years ago. The AHC was gone and I had a 30 day up to $3000 repair credit which I used immediately lol Slee cranked up the torsion bars to maintain the same height it was before the bumper was installed.

Sounds normal. My front end is definitely heavier that stock. I got a bumper, lights and winch. I am even considering messing with my front shock setting to make it a bit stiffer so it’s not so floaty feeling at high speeds.

I know a lot of people install a part time kit to make the steering feel much easier. The part time kit gives you manual locking hubs like the old Toyotas had. So you’d be in 2WD (rear wheels only) unless you manually lock the front hubs. I wish I can speak more on this, I bought the kit but never got around to installing it yet.

 

[chuckscap]

I'm going to have the front end checked out for any play on Monday (I had a previous appointment) if there are any components that need to be replaced I'll get it done, otherwise I'm already getting used to it. Thanks for all of the replies!

 

[chris777]

I replaced my OME 2” Heavy lift before it is 10 years old. Actually twice, in the past 18 years, on my FJ60 that has leaf springs. Do coil springs last longer? I dont know. I havent replace the springs on my 2018 Land Cruiser yet. No springs last forever. Might be something to consider.

 

[GTV]

Torsion bars have the benefit of being adjustable. Front end showing its age and starting to sag? Give them a crank and you’re back up to where you’re supposed to be.

 

[Mike NXP]

Torsion bars have the benefit of being adjustable. Front end showing its age and starting to sag? Give them a crank and you’re back up to where you’re supposed to be.

He mentioned that Slee adjusted the bars to accommodate the added weight.....

I'm going to have the front end checked out for any play on Monday (I had a previous appointment) if there are any components that need to be replaced I'll get it done, otherwise I'm already getting used to it. Thanks for all of the replies!

and I assume Slee is also knowledgeable enough to shake down for any loose parts before installing bumpers, adjusting t-bars, and sending someone on their way but for sure with checking out.

I think the heavier steering could be 50/50 in your head / totally normal because the added weight. I have a stock front end with the same bumper + 12k winch. I adjusted t-bars and my front end measures around 19.5" from center hub to fender lip...As long as the steering isn't binding, nothing feels loose, then full steam ahead

 

[chuckscap]

Thanks I'm already gettting used to it.