Oddly enough, I just put a KYB on my Hoe. Would you like to read about it?
Of course you would!
My truck also wanders a tad and I was getting pulled into ruts and stuff so I install the Single unit KYB SS15326 kit (all hardware included) from Rock Auto for about $60. I didn't want to crawl under the truck in the snow to go through the entire front end so I thought the stabilizer would help until summer. Installation was a breeze and I can really fell the difference. Unfortunately, it's not all roses and song and I will try to describe it all so you can decide for yourself.
Background info for others who may read this:
A stabilizer is a horizontally mounted shock absorber mounted to the frame on one end and the drag link on the other. It resists side to side steering motion or "Bump Steer" induced by the tires hitting bumps and ruts. If you ever watched Overhaulin' how they steer the car going into the paint booth by kicking the sides of the front wheels while pushing the car; that's a good example of bump steering.
The Good:
Holds the wheels pointed in your chosen direction (unless you have bad wheel bearings). You won't feel any steering wheel pull when changing lanes over rutty roads and pot holes.
Steering feels more solid.
The Bad:
Holds the wheels pointed in your chosen direction. The wheels won't center themselves coming out of a turn like they used to.
It won't help any with wind shear. You won't even feel the tug at the wheel anymore - the vehicle will just be 8 inches to the side without warning.
All those unconscious nudges you give the wheel to stay in your lane will be off along with your timing. Not drastic - just irritating.
Any dead spots or play in the steering wheel will widen a bit.
Sideways forces acting on the tire get transmitted to the frame instead of the steering wheel so the truck may vibrate more (great for feeling worn wheel bearings).
Puts more strain on the steering gear box and Pittman arm.
Steering, especially quick paced rally style, is a bit slower and takes more effort.
For me, the jury is still out whether I like the swapping of old irritations for new ones. I plan to do any Pittman / Idler arm reinforcing mods and replace any worn stuff in the summer and try again with and without the stabilizer to see if I wanna keep it on there. I run stock wheels and tires, can't off-road around here and I haven't gotten enough snow yet to see if it helps.
Still, it's cheap and easy enough to install to see if you like it.
Hope this helps a bit.
