Steering upgrades/repairs for Tigger (3/2007), Power Steering Boost

Years ago, I discovered the frame cracking at the weld seam near the bottom of the outboard rail near the steering box on Tigger.

I had reason to examine the steering system again, and found the crack was still there, bigger, and the plate steel I had used to help out the situation had been bent.

In addition, the bolt holes were now cracked out, too.

So the cracks were welded up and ground down.

And a new hunk of ~12"x4"x1/4" plate was selected, drilled, and shaped.

The inside rail was also damaged around the steering box. Seems 36" tires takes a toll on things.

The inside cracks were also welded and ground. Then painted.

I also took the opportunity to gusset the engine mount before it failed.

My 1"OD x .188 DOM draglink was bent at the Top Truck Challenge, so it was time to upgrade even more.

This time, to 1.5x.250 DOM.

I used some weld-in inserts from Ballistic.

While I was working on the steering system, I decided to give a Straight Steer from Back Country Binders a shot. I'd never felt the straight-steer was necessary, since I had the 1/4" plate behind the steering box, but clearly I needed something a little more for my wheelin' style.

I also bought a new stock style power steering high pressure hose to replace my worn one, and an overwrap for hydraulic hoses.

Straight steer installed.

And with my new steering linkage installed.

While I had everything apart, I also opted to boost the power steering by shimming the pressure relief valve, as noted by Jim Weed.

Photo Gallery

The result? Stout steering that works again - no more frame flex slowing down my steering response, I can "push" the tires sideways in deep snow without being afraid the frame, the steering linkage, or the power steering hose would let go.

So far so good..