Hey guys, I have a 2001 Chevy Silverado 4x4 1500 pickup truck.
My steering wheel is not centered, it's been this way for a long time. It's annoying, frustrating and I would like to figure out how to straighten out the steering wheel.
In addition, if I let go of the wheel while driving the car does slowly work its way to the right.
Good Times! Now I know your initial response will be to get it aligned. I'm aware of the that option.
This is what I have done so far myself.
I have cleaned and lubricated the upper control arm bolts that will need to be loosened and adjusted accordingly.
I have loosened and lubricated the outer tie rod nuts to be able to adjust in and out.
My question is, could I have messed with the alignment when I replaced the front shocks?
In addition, what can I do to straighten out the wheel by adjusting the tie rods? Thx for your help.
Anthony

 

as long as you did not move the upper control arm eccentric adjusters or move the tie rods the toe alignment should not have changed.

off centered steering is corrected by toe adjustment.
if the steering is moving offcenter by itself...that is another issue. this issue is tire and cross caster related.

toe will change with ride height change and worn steering or suspension components. do a suspension check to find any worn parts and replace them. depending on what was replaced...an alignment may be required. You can adjust your tie rods yourself to correct the off center concern. the caveat being if other issues are there and not addressed...this will not correct them.

assuming the "total toe" is correct.... if the steering is off center left when the vehicle is driving straight...both tires must move left in the tie rod adjustment....so turn each tie rod 1/4 turn...one out to lengthen that side tie rod the other 1/4 turn in to shorten that side tie rod. test drive and see if its center. if not enough go another 1/4 turn.

because you turn each tie rod the same amount the total toe is kept correct. total toe must be correct or the tires wear irregularly.

 

Appreciate your help. I didn’t touch the upper control arms but I lubricated the adjusting areas knowing that will need to be done.
I did start to adjust the tie rod ends and made it worse.
now the steering wheel is over to the left more than It was initially.
I truly should have waited for your response. Now it’s worse.

 

I went ahead and adjusted the tie rods again and it is much better. However. no matter what I do the steering wheel is crooked to the left still.
In addition, the truck does vear to the right while driving, especially if I let go of the wheel.
I did want to mention that I did replace both front shocks. I have no idea if you are supposed to get an alignment after installing the shocks?
I was able to make a wood block to keep the steering wheel in place while adjusting the tie rods but there is more work that needs to be done. Thx again!