So I hit this thing while offroading, and I'm pretty sure it has something to do with my steering, but I don't know what it's called, what exactly it does, if it needs to be replaced, and..

• what would be a replacement that would stand up to abuse better? and improve handling at the same time.
• Is there a skid plate for this / or does it relocate higher?

When I jack up my frame or axel and get some flex, I can hear a creaking / cracking at a certain point, and I'm wondering if it is this?
My steering feels a bit less precise, but I'm not sure whether it's all in my head.

 

That is your steering stabilizer. You can upgrade it with one from a number of companies like Bilstein or Fox.

You can also get a front track bar bracket and tie rod clamp that will allow you to mount your stabilizer up a little bit higher (above the tie rod).

 

Yup that's your steering stabilizer. I ran the rough Country dual Stabilizer for a year. Worked well. What it does is help with bump steer. Kind of softens up steering wheel movement when hitting bumps. I now run a Zone off Road one and It works great as well!

 

The steering stabilizer does not affect bump steer, that has to do with geometry related to the track bar and drag link. The steering stabilizer dampens the steering feel.

 

I always thought bump steer and steering feel were the same thing

Thanks for correcting me!

 

You should relocate the SS. I like the JeepSWAG kit. You can buy any number of SS to use with it, including the one offered at the link below. I prefer the Teraflex, which is about 50% beefier than OEM. Brett at JeepSWAG is a super guy with great customer service. He pioneered the JK SS relocation years ago.

http://www.jeepswag.com/shop/?s=stab...t_type=product

 

Can anyone recommend a good steering stabilizer relocation kit?

I have found the synergy bracket:SYNERGY MANUFACTURING*::*Jeep JK*::*Synergy Jeep JK Steering Stabilizer Relocation Bracket

And relocation tie-rod clamp: SYNERGY MANUFACTURING*::*Steering*::*Synergy Jeep JK Steering Stabilizer Tie Rod Clamp

At $95 for both, seems kinda pricey, not sure if anyone else offers a good solution at a lower price.

Thanks,

From what I read, you also need a new tie rod clamp with the '12+ - does that kit include it?

 

My jeep creeks when its just sitting there

 

Steering feel normally refers to two things: On-center feel or return, which is driven by caster, and how much force is needed to turn the steering wheel, which is set by valving in the power steering pump. Bump steer is the tendency of s bump against the front tire to force the steering to turn. It is caused by poor angle of the drag link and pitman arm, usually as a lift gets higher, changing those angles. A SS won't fix bump steer, though one could certainly put one on that was so resistive to movement that it masks the bump movement, as well as steering feel. This is not the best way to fix bump steer. A drop Pitman arm or flipped drag link is a real fix.

 

The shaft protecting tube is damaged and crimped and most likely limits travel due to rubbing. You need to change it anyways. See if it will fix it.

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