69 Chevy C20 Steering Question

[Marksurfer]

I've read some different past threads trying to figure out my issue. Just finished up a restoration or my restoration guy did on 69 C20. i didn't not change out or make any mods, just all new steering components (tie rods, ball joints, etc.) Also upgraded to a new quick ratio steering box. Had a full alignment done also. It drives nice and straight, but seems finicky. It seems to pull quickly with to L or R with slightest movement. doesn't have the smooth rack/pinion feel. it has the original steering wheel and shaft, but everything else is new.
Any ideas or suggestions?

[bry593]

What ratio is your steering box? A 10:1 ratio with the large diameter steering wheel, will feel a bit darty. You'll get used to it. I think trucks work best if you keep the quick ratio closer to 14:1.

Nice truck by the way!

[68 P.O.S.]

Is your centerlink backwards? Upper A-arms on the correct sides? Need more pics

[Marksurfer]

Sorry for the late reply back.. Not sure on which ratio of gear box he installed, i just went from the standard gear box to a new quick ratio, which i believe is 3 1/4 turn vs the stock 4 1/2 turn lock to lock. Figured out the issue though. He said he would get it aligned after he installed the new gear box and apparently it wasn't. Got it aligned and now drives much better. It definitely is more responsive and turns much better. With the original big steering wheel is very sensitive or can be darty like you mentioned. Not my everyday driver so good enough for me.
Would a steering stabilizer kit help or stiffen up the steering any? I see them listed in the LMC and other catalogs for about $50.

[Bigdav160]

Originally Posted by 68 P.O.S.

Is your centerlink backwards? Upper A-arms on the correct sides? Need more pics

This! I don't think the box change makes that big a difference

[68 P.O.S.]

Originally Posted by Marksurfer

Would a steering stabilizer kit help or stiffen up the steering any?

I added one to my 72. Yes, it will help a little, nothing dramatic. The only real differences I've noticed are a small resistance in turning the wheel, and the wheel doesn't return to center as easily or quickly.

[Oldironside]

Had the same issue, also have the same steering box. Tried it with a steering stabilizer but then the steering felt a little bit too stiff. The only thing that did the trick was switching the valve of the steering pump to one with a different diameter (can't say what diameter because it's been quite a while when I did it) to reduce the pressure that goes to the steering box. Now the steering has the right feel.

[72 paul]

Any pics of install of damper out there? 71 C20 2wd.Got a Monroe sa1932.Says it will fit?Thanks for any response.

[54blackhornet]

Don’t complain, every drive one without power steering ? Almost dangerous on uneven ground l

[68 P.O.S.]

Originally Posted by 54blackhornet

Don’t complain, every drive one without power steering ? Almost dangerous on uneven ground l

You ain't lying

[71meangreenc10]

Was your truck a Manual Steering truck before?

Smitty

[72 paul]

My truck is power steering,real easy to steer and darty.I do have giant tires on front.The damper has very poor install instructions and is, I'm sure universal.Lmc sells same deal in there catalog.Gonna look into slowin down flow in pump too.

[lil hoodlum]

Originally Posted by 68 P.O.S.

Is your centerlink backwards? Upper A-arms on the correct sides? Need more pics

I also second this. It is very easy to install the center link backwards and the symptoms are the steering is very darty, or seems very easy to over-correct. Make sure the inner tie rod is installed through the back side of the center link, castle nut is facing forward and grease fitting is on the back side of the center link on the crossmember side.