Solving Memory Steer with Moog Compression-loaded Lower Ball Joints for Dana 60 Solid Axles

Improving Compression-Load Designs

With a spirit of continuous innovation, MOOG® engineers have made additional enhancements to their compression-loaded lower ball joints for Dana 60 solid axles. MOOG started by updating these ball joints with a patented integral dust boot, a patented bearing design, and an improved forged housing. These improvements increased strength and durability, extended service life, and improved ease of installation. Now, MOOG engineers have tackled the issue of memory steer that can affect these parts.

What is Memory Steer?

Memory steer is a condition where the steering wheel doesn’t return to center after a turn, remaining in the turned position. Memory steer makes controlling the vehicle challenging because the driver is constantly having to reposition the steering wheel after completing a turn. 

On-vehicle steering wheel test to analyze returnability. The photo on the left shows that the steering wheel didn’t return to center, while the photo on the right shows it at center.

Coated for Performance

To address the issue of memory steer that drivers of many trucks and SUVs have encountered, MOOG now applies a Molykote® coating to the lower ball joints designed for Dana 60 solid axles. Applied to the ball stud of MOOG part numbers K8607T, K8195T and K500141, this coating improves performance and durability while helping with steering returnability.

*This chart includes a selection of featured applications; additional application coverage data is available at drivparts.com.

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