Why might the steering wheel in a truck wander after front springs and hangers replacement?

The phenomenon of steering wheel wander after front springs and hangers have been replaced can be attributed to issues with caster angles, specifically when caster shims are installed incorrectly. If caster shims are installed backward, they can alter the vehicle's wheel alignment by changing the angle of the steering axis relative to the ground. This misalignment can lead to instability in steering, causing the wheel to wander or feel loose during operation.

Proper caster angle is crucial for maintaining directional stability; too little positive caster can result in erratic steering behavior, including wandering. In contrast, corrections made through appropriate shim installation will ensure that the angle is set correctly, enhancing the control and stability of the truck.

While other choices mention aspects such as incorrect spring length, wheel alignment issues, and a worn steering box, these are not specifically related to the direct consequences of incorrect caster shim installation impacting steering feel post-spring replacement. These could potentially cause related problems, but the direct cause of wandering in this context is most closely associated with the positioning of caster shims.