Steering damper?

As I was tightening the steering box on the 70 Jeepster, I noticed the damper looks like it might need to be replaced. I checked the 73 parts rig I have and found it not to have one at all, nor any indication that it ever had one. I do recall a thread to the effect that you could totally take the steering damper off. It is connected to the axle and to the steering rod (If that is what that long rod is that goes fully accross the front) with a shock type thingy in between. Would that be what you all were referring to?
Thanks
Ps,,Thanks to Mike for the advice on tightening the bolts on steering box. I took the bolts out, put in new ones and larger washers,,works great now.

PSS,,I thought I wouldn't like this new look but hey,,it is the Jeepster owners that have made this a wonderful chat area, so don't get too into the look,,just keep up the good chatter!

1970 Jeepster
1971 parts
1988 Harley Davidson

[DaveGoodrich]

Yes, that thing you are talking about is the steering dampner (also sometimes called a steering stabilizer). The dampner is very helpful to reduce steering wheel vibration, especially if you have large tires.

I was able to get a Rancho replacement for my '67 that used the stock brackets. I think you can also get a complete kit that includes both the shock and the brackets. Any Rancho distributor should be able to look up your application (I got mine at 4West in Colton, CA).



David Goodrich
'67 Jeepster Commando Wagon

So I guess you are saying that I couldn't take it totally off? I don't have a lift nor large tires and don't do much offroading.
Thanks for the lead on replacement parts.
Linda

1970 Jeepster
1971 parts
1988 Harley Davidson

[DaveGoodrich]

Yes, you could take it off, however, I think you might get a "resonance" effect where the wheel vibration is reinforced at certain speeds and the vibration gets worse and worse unless you slow down. I have seen this happen in other vehicles. Also, the stabilizer reduces the shock transmitted to the steering wheel when you hit bumps etc. I think the Rancho kits are only about $50 or so.

David Goodrich
'67 Jeepster Commando Wagon