New Cooper ATW Tires Hard to Steer

Hi Everyone,

Searched all around the web and can't find a true diagnosis. Replaced the stock tires and same size with Cooper ATW P245 75 R16. First off I had to bring it back because the alignment was way off. Then after the 2nd attempt, it drives straight but it is hard to turn left or right. Almost like not having power steering. No noise - just when I turn it left or right it sticks and I have to give it more muscle to turn. Not a smooth turn of the wheel. Brought it back a 3rd time and they put it on the lift and say nothing was binding but they "think" its because they have more grip and give it time it will get smoother as the tire wears down? I have replaced my stock tires on previous trucks and never did I run into this issue. I called Cooper and they said they had never heard of the issue I was describing to them and could return them. Any ideas would be great. I am thinking, but I am no car expert, that it is something with the alignment? When they did it the first time they used a torch because something was seized up due to New England road salt.

 

sounds like your caster is way off.

 

Yes, having your alignment checked would be a good start.

I have been running ATWs for a few months now and I have nothing to complain about.

 

alignment not tires

 

Thanks all for your replies. I brought it back and suggested that it may be the alignment - specifically the caster as I was told. They brought me back to the computer and the passenger tire was the only thing off but not by much. The issue still happened. I just found a post online about the steering u-joint and this being a real issue back in '05 with Tacoma's and 4-runners. There is no cover over it or grease fitting because it is too small. I guess the dirt and especially the New England road salt corrode and rust it all up. I did as suggested - hit it with a pressure washer and then lubricated the heck out of it with pb blaster - and now all is good again! Just coincidence that it just happened when I got the tires replaced or just my bad luck!

 

Glad you got it strainghted out... Those are the tires I want next when my ST MAXX wear out, what size are yours and what ya pay for them.?

 

Got for 127.00ea. P245/75R16