whiskey_JK

I have a 2013 Jeep Wrangler Sport Unlimited.
I have replaced:
Power steering pump
Steering gear
Tie rod ends and Rod
Drag Link
I have a 2.5” Lift (just shocks and springs) 33x12.5x15 Tires
My issue is that my steering wheel does not return to center after I turn. I have to force it back to center.
Any suggestions?

Sv_dude

I’d start with an alignment. If you don’t have enough caster, that can cause this issue.

whiskey_JK

Already got an alignment, did not work

Sv_dude

Do you have the alignment sheet? What did they set caster to?

resharp001

Is this something that has been going on since you bought it? I see you joined just last month so guessing you haven't had this jeep long? Anything done with the ball joints that you know of? Curious about caster as well.

nthinuf

Yep, post the before and after specs. Don't know if the Caster or Toe are/are not contributing factors to your steering problem, but seeing the numbers is a good starting point to help with diagnosis. (Caster is not adjustable from the factory. It went down when the lift was added. Unless some type of correction was installed - the shop could not adjust it.)

whiskey_JK

resharp001

Your caster is about as low as we commonly see on a 3.5" lift, so guessing those 2.5" springs are boosting you a bit higher even. I'm not sure getting that in spec will 100% fix your issue, but I know that sure the heck ain't helping drivability. Control arm brackets are an inexpensive way to help raise that caster back up. They typically range from $90-$150 with the higher-end ones being a 1-piece design and offering a few different mounting positions.

whiskey_JK

So is the casters good I just need adjustable control arms?

Sv_dude

2.6* is way low for caster isn’t it? I thought factory minimum was like 4*. I’d definitely suggest adjustable control arms. If your caster isn’t set right, you won’t have a good return to center.