Steering Issues, from body lift?

[Jason S]

Definitely loose the blocks (but you've already heard that).  A good quality lift kit will get you the lift you want safely.

On a lighter note...
If it comes to it, every time you buy a part for the 1985 get a quote ticket for the same part from the 2008 (i.e., 1985 water pump vs. 2008 duramax waterpump; 1985 fuel pump vs. 2008 duramax fuel pump;1985 transmission versus 2008 duramax transmission, windshields, radiators, bearings, etc.). 

[winky]

I have the EXACT same problem with my truck... Blocks in the rear not sure about front.. If there are they are small. Someone told me it was the 2" body lift I had.. I may post pics tomorrow if I can

[firefighter]

I have the EXACT same problem with my truck... Blocks in the rear not sure about front.. If there are they are small. Someone told me it was the 2" body lift I had.. I may post pics tomorrow if I can

There are two different ways to lift a truck. Suspension lift or Body lift.
On a suspension lift, on the rear you either use higher arched springs or spacer blocks between the axle and stock springs. On the front you use higher arched springs only. Never use spacer blocks in the front.
On a body lift, the suspension and springs are untouched and all the lift is achieved by simply adding spacers under the box, cab and radiator support. You're simply lifting all the sheet metal further off of the frame.

Pics would be great.

[bake74]

I have the EXACT same problem with my truck... Blocks in the rear not sure about front.. If there are they are small. Someone told me it was the 2" body lift I had.. I may post pics tomorrow if I can

There are two different ways to lift a truck. Suspension lift or Body lift.
On a suspension lift, on the rear you either use higher arched springs or spacer blocks between the axle and stock springs. On the front you use higher arched springs only. Never use spacer blocks in the front.
On a body lift, the suspension and springs are untouched and all the lift is achieved by simply adding spacers under the box, cab and radiator support. You're simply lifting all the sheet metal further off of the frame.

Pics would be great.

     The only exception to that rule is the use of a small "wedge" in front to correct steering geometry on bigger lifts.  The best way is too cut off the spring perches on the front axle and build in the angle when you weld them back on.  But most shops just use a wedge, they work and are pretty common.

[winky]

well mine has blocks only in back and a 2" body lift and its having the same symptoms as his. thanks for the replys when i get off work today ill try to get some pics if it isn't raining

[Irish_Alley]

unless you put the it in yourself i would bet the front has newer springs or the rear would be about 4" higher than the front, but whats your truck doing

[winky]

just like his i can turn to the right only half as much as i can turn to the left.. guessing i need to get an adapter for steering? i have pics now just gotta upload em

[bake74]

     I know on some vehicles, that the steering box can only turn so many turns to the left and right, and there is a "center" for them.  I am not sure about these trucks, I have never rebuilt one for these trucks yet, I have to when I get to that part of my build, so I will know then.
    Maybe someone else can pipe in and say wether these boxes are like that.

[chevyjoe_99]

I think it it also worth noting that when coupled with larger tires and the stress that comes with them, these trucks have a tendency to crack the frame at the steering box. I would definately check that as well.

[winky]

I think it it also worth noting that when coupled with larger tires and the stress that comes with them, these trucks have a tendency to crack the frame at the steering box. I would definately check that as well.

already welded that and patched it up