Steering Damper (Steering Kickback)

The power steering system, as well as reducing the effort required to maneuver the vehicle when parking, also helps to dampen any deflections of the road wheels, being transmitted back to the steering wheel.

When operating the vehicle off road, the road wheels are often deflected by ruts and boulders causing the steering wheel to turn left and right. This phenomenon is known as 'steering kickback'. To subdue the effects of "steering kickback", a hydraulic damper is installed in the steering linkage between the track rod and the differential casing. The damper, which offers the same resistance in extension and compression, is sealed for life.

STEERING DAMPER CHECK
1. Inspect damper for casing damage or leaks.
2. Clamp one end of the damper horizontally in a vice using soft jaws.
- Compress and extend the unit by hand.
- Resistance should be equal in both directions.
3. If it is felt that the unit is outside acceptable limits, install a new steering damper