The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline Steering dampener

When I first got my truck it was very hard to turn. I looked at the steering dampener and the rod had a bend in it. I disconnected it and it was much easier to turn. But I don't seem to notice any ill affects from not having it installed, even at highway speeds. Was it for preventing injury if you hit a rock or pothole or was it to reduce shimmy at highway speeds? I am guessing it would only be needed on manual steering as the hydraulics probably achieve the same goal.

Any insight would be helpful - thanks.