Caster settings.... - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

AVConsult · 11-13-2011, 03:37 PM

Has anyone explored modifying their 2nd Gen HL for higher caster values to counteract the numb on-center feel the electric steering imposes on these HL's?

I know BMW, Benz, Fod Mustang and other vehicles dial in 5 degrees or more caster to improve center feel and tracking. The HL's only have 2.6 degrees or so. I suspect vehicles that fall to the low side of that tolerance have poorer feel and tracking than those on the high side.

deadrx7conv · 11-13-2011, 10:00 PM

The electric steering is lame. Caster won't help it.

VW's are able to program the electric steering for different boost/feel.

We're stuck with overly assisted and that is the problem causing the numb on center.

Toyota doesn't give us any options. I'd do anything for a tad less steering assist.

AVConsult · 11-13-2011, 10:54 PM

mmm, my hunch is increased caster would help, as it will make the on-center feel heavier, center return more aggressive, and less twitchy. I'm not talking of dialing 5 degrees, just an extra degree or so. Just asking if anyone has attempted, or even loosened strut tower bolts and pushed the tower as far back as bolt hole slop will allow.

nov0798 · 11-14-2011, 01:04 AM

Hmm, my 08 steers and feels fine, and tracks straight as can be. Also, there is not "slop" in the the bolt holes that the struts mount to, so thats not gonna happen.

AVConsult · 11-14-2011, 01:18 PM

Glad for you. Mine doesn't, and it's a common complaint. Pass-through bolt holes are always just ever so oversized. Just want to know how much from someone who's changed struts (probably not many for 2nd Gen).

nov0798 · 11-14-2011, 01:37 PM

The holes are exact, not over sized. The only way to adjust camber is to buy a camber adjusting kit, or cut the towers, and re weld them at the new angle. Since neither are options, I guess you kinda stuck! Maybe the better suspension on the Sport vs the base model has something to do with it?

AVConsult · 11-14-2011, 04:52 PM

I'm asking about caster, not camber. OK, the tower holes are machined exactly. Whatever you say.

nov0798 · 11-20-2011, 12:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AVConsult

I'm asking about caster, not camber. OK, the tower holes are machined exactly. Whatever you say.

Im well aware of what caster is, bottom line is its not changeable on these vehicles. And yes the holes are exact, if you dont believe me, go take the nuts off the tops of your towers, and you will see. Not sure what else to tell ya! You can buy camber adjusting bolts for these vehicles, but not caster.

Subaryota · 11-20-2011, 01:19 PM

With MacPherson Struts, you'll need a custom top hat to adjust caster. A strong self-centring effect won't necessarily give you better feel. As other's have mentioned, I think the numb feel has more to do with the programming of the electrical assist.

Also, if you are able to get a higher caster angle, it'll likely put more wear on the electric assist and the gearing involved.

Remember, the HL is not marketed for the X5, MDX, or Tribeca driver. It's not known to be a driver's vehicle.

I have the Sports version. Steering works. It goes where I point it. But I don't get nearly as much feedback compared to my Subaru 06 WRX or 00 2.5RS. But I don't expect my HL to drive like my WRX. On centre feel is numb..... again, compared to my other cars. Sweeping turns require more concentration compared to my Subies...... but again..... it's a Highlander. Great vehicle for what it is. Not such a great vehicle for what it's not.

Cheers