"Steer" me right
 

is the steering shock stabilizer just a regular shock or what? I need to replace my stock one and don't know what to look for. Can anyone "steer" me in the right direction?

Pretty much any parts store should carry one. I got one from Autozone. Steering stabilizers appear to extend much further than a regular shock. They cost about the same as a single shock absorber.

Depending on the size of the tires you are running, you may need a dual setup. I've heard anything bigger than 33s should have a dual shock steering stabilizer.

33's is what I'm running now. I'm going to add a 2" lift pretty soon. Should I wait to put the steering stabilizer in then? What is involved with the install? thanks for the replies.

You can put it in now if you want. A lift has no effect on the install. If you're getting any bump-steer, a stabilizer setup will dampen that out. I get a considerable amount of bump-steer with 35s, but I'm sure my stabilizer shocks have just about had it.

They're pretty easy to install, basically the setup is u-bolted to the tie rod and axle tube. Some axles have a pad welded to the tube to mount that end to, some tie rods are drilled for its respective end. Dual setups come in a parallel configuration, or an end-for-end configuration. The end-for-ends give you a little more ground clearance.

Shop the 'Net, the local 4Wheel Parts store, or else consult 4 Wheel & Offroad magazine, there's a ton of vendors that advertise in there.:bowtie:

thanks stout!

My 69 is fine with a single stabalizer running 35's. From what I understand a stabalizer is different from a shock - not sure what is different though.

i read on here that a s.s. is valved differently than than a shock. If it weren't then the s.s. would always be trying to steer you to the right because it would expand, wouldn't it??
i'm not sure, I only have 31's, so i'm not running one, but i plan to in the future. I'll probably just buy a s.s. and fab my own brackets.
Jason:canada:

I like to keep things looking factory. So I don't go for the aftermarket bolt on/bracket stuff. Your pickup has a factory steering stab and when it gets worn out you can purchase another one that fits in the factory place for not much money. Its out of the way, does its job and doesn't detract from the factory look.

Bill 1978 4x4 Shortbed Scottsdale.