Sector Shaft Brace, Steersmarts or Synergy?
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 พ.ย. 2024
- Im sorry, the in-video link to the Steersmarts sector shaft install is not working, so here is the link to the video!
• Tighten up that Jeep J...
A quick video discussing the major differences between Synergy and Steersmarts sector shaft brace. Hope y'all enjoy!
Here is the link to the SS part!
steersmarts.co...
Have you checked out any of our mountain biking content? I really hope you would take a moment and check it out! Enjoy our journey as we increase or confidence and skills, the same way you have with us and the Jeep!
Here is the link to Synergy part!
www.synergymfg...
And no, I didn't leave the part in the trash, calm down. I don't think Synergy makes a bad product, I just feel Steersmarts has done a better job in designing this piece. A few have reached out to me since filming this to tell me the SS piece rubs into the pitman arm and the spring. I have NOT encountered this problem.
BUT its always important to check clearances after any install!
Don't forget your JLLO and Booger Hooker merchandise!
shop.spreadshi...
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
/ bromancejl
/ heathen.jlu
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK
/ jllifeoffroad
![ปฏิเสธไม่ไหว (Crush on you) - LIPTA feat. No One Else [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/NBw1jF342vw/mqdefault.jpg)
From a very experience person on both products and installing them myself I can tell you the SS unit is better even after Synergy redesigned their bushing issues
You know, everyone Iv talked to, who has had personal experience with both… always preferred steersmarts
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD I didn’t even watch the video before I posted a comment.
You talked me into it.
I want smart steering from steer smart.
I was planning on the synergy but now that I know steer smart uses steel sector connector, I'll go with them.
You will thank you in the long run. Thanks for watching!
Thank you! Everyone pushes synergy, clearly the steer smart is a smarter choice.
Some company’s have a cult following I guess 🤷♂️ synergy ain’t horrible, just not for us.
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD a bumper review you did is how I found you. You showed how it would move and dmg the rear. That was when I first got my jl and didn't realize the huge market for shit, and "ok" products. I want the strongest or highest quality bang for my buck when it comes to build my rig and am not interested in looks based products, so I appreciate these videos immensely.
Thts awesome! Glad tht video has been helping people. It can be hard navigating junk to quality built stuff when ur new to the life… Internet forums don’t help… usually full of people just brand simping or tossing pointless insults about others…
But super glad you been enjoying the content! 🙌🙌
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD for sure man🍻 apart of a wheeling group now so that's helped a bunch with seeing what works and what doesn't.
The best way to learn!
Amazing video. All the other "influencers" are paid by off by synergy to talk about how great their products are. However, you comparing these 2 similar products side by side really shows which one is superior. We need more videos like this!
Good comparison. Always better to hear from someone who used both.
Thanks Keith! Always appreciate you taking the time to watch!!
I put synergy on my jk, not knowing there were other options. No problems so far, been 4 years. Either way, good upgrade. Enjoy your jeep.
I did the same. Agree on all counts.
🙌 great minds!
I almost bought the synergy . Thank you for making this video !
Happy to save you the early purchase 🙌🙌🙌
Happy to save you the early purchase 🙌🙌🙌
Here's a couple of thoughts. First, you can use thread locker for SS hardware in aluminum components (just use blue thread lock). And the other thought is, the one thing I do like about the synergy is that the bracing runs all the way up post the 4 mounting holes. This creates a very solid, stable and stiff mount. I wish the Steersmarts would have done the same thing. Of course these are just opinions. I have no idea which one is better.
Good points, friend. Thank you for adding to it and appreciate you taking the time to watch!
Good video. I was torn between both of them, but definitely doing the steer smarts now.
Cool! Just make sure you get the correct one for your jeep! (Rubicon vs non rubicon models)
Thanks for watching!
Saw that. Ordered the one for Rubicon. Now if I can just get the Nitto Ridge Grapplers in new 38x12.50r17, I’ll be ready for Moab in October.
I seen those! SICK!!!
Great information. A Sector Shaft Bracket is on its way. Thanks.
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed! Thanks for watching
Great video. Clear difference between the two. I'll be buying the Steersmarts.
Glad I could help!
Installed Steersmarts sector shaft in a 2021 Rubicon 392 with a 3.5" gamechanger lift running 12.5X38s recently. Immediately felt the different on the first drive. Felt like I was driving a different vehicle--responsive and smooth. Love it! Wish I would have made this the first mod to the jeep day 1.
I just bought a new '23 Rubicon 392 and it wanders all over the road. I'm wondering if this will fix it...
@@regnar19881 It will improve it a lot, but not 100%. For the last year I also had a Redneck Ram installed with the hopes it would further improve the steering performance. However, due to the electric power steering pump and how it sense and applies pressure (too slow to the ram) it is NOT a good solution and just removed it! I am seriously considering the PSC Big Bore XD-JL Steering Gearbox, as I believe it will solve the problem in conjunction with the sector shaft brace--just need to confirm with PSC that they are compatible before ordering.
30 seconds into the video, my vote is for Steer Smarts
Yea, just by looking at them u can see
Thanks for watching!
You kept it REAL! Great video, outstanding comparison. I’m literally going to change my set up now.
It’s the only way o know! Thanks for watching! 🙌
Nice information with the pros and cons and your personal thoughts on each product and experience. Keep up the great work!
Thanks friend! Glad u enjoyed the video! 🙌
Great informative video. I’ve replaced the track bar, tie rod, drag link and stabilizer to correct a death wobble I experienced a couple of years ago. I’m going to replace the stock sector shaft brace with the Steersmarts and hopefully that will cure my loose steering.
Have you tried getting the stew gear box put in???
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD I haven’t as of yet. I’ve been thinking about giving the dealership a try to see if there’s something they can do on their dime for a change.
Fixing to address this issue. Sold. Excellent video excellent example of metal education for those of us who are not well versed. Awesome video.
No brainer on this choice!
Always happy to hear from you brother! Thank you for watching!
Great comparison. I haven't seen the SS one in depth before. Looks good. Im not defending Synergy, but as you mentioned, they did come out with newer parts. I ordered the Synergy one when it first cam out, but didn't install it after hearing bad things and the rumors of a new steering box. So after I go the new steering box, what a hassle that was, I reached out to Synergy and they sent me the new parts under warranty and new bolts that are used for the new steering box. So now there is new hardware, new sector shaft brace, and new pitman nut with seals. I never had the original design installed, so far the newer design has been good, we will see over time though. Im glad you mentioned the issue with some track bars not working wit the Synergy one. I had to do some grinding on my track bar so that it wouldn't rub on the bottom bolt of the brace. Great video, good to see a side by side.
EEEEsh shouldn't have to be grinding down a track bar... IMHO, they should be contacting everyone who bought their defective model and offering to send out the new parts
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD agreed
Any update on how the sealed bearing held up?
another incredibly informative video dude lol!! gonna likely be upgrading...
🙌🙌🙌 always appreciate you man!
Great review thank you for your detailed review. I was looking for a review as such that explain built and result not installation. thanks again
Another great video. Thanks. If i can point out something. Few last videos including this one, sometimes a portion of the video has low volume, them kicks back normal, then loud... Maybe normalize the volume?
I’m not even sure why it would do tht 🤔
We recently moved to a mic… due to all the boom noises the phone mic was picking up
I went with steer smart bracket after the synergy did not work for my JT. Now, my JT is fun to drive. Now I'm planning of getting a Steer Smart Track Bar. I'm really happy with it.
Excellent comparison.
Glad you enjoyed it, Mark!
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD I've had the Rusty's frame brace... which I never installed, and the Synergy unit, which I only used as a frame brace because the bushing looked so fragile.
Any long term update?? Hear a lot of folks only make it 10k miles before the sealed bearing starts to crap out and make noise?
I just installed the Synergy one on my JL, of course I didn't watch this video first. The newest kit has a few changes. First they have a sealed bearing now and no grease fitting. They recommend you thread locker the bolts into the aluminium piece (they provide red lock lite) and the spec is now 50 lbs vs 30 lbs on the old kit. They've changed some of the hardware and now provide new bolts if you have the steel steering box. Hopefully I don't have any regrets not having the steer smarts 😮
Any issues?
Great video! Now I would love to hear your opinion on what you think the best all around tire is.
Kinda hard to make tht determination, I haven’t tried a lot of tires out there
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD True but you probably know more people who wheel and could gather a general consensus amongst offroaders.
If Thts the case, I guess id pick nitto trail grapplers
I also use the Steer Smarts and chose it because of the better sector shaft bearing over a greaseable bushing. Less maintenance for me.
Nice video comparison thanks for sharing 👍
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed and appreciate you watching! 🙌
Great video, man! I knew I wanted the SS brace but was surprised to learn from your video about the synergy power coating (on all their parts) chipping. Any recommendations for trackbars and sector shafts? (Other than synergy?)
Thank you for making this video. Now that you had the brace for awhile, do you still like the brace?
I do, solid piece. Still beats my recommendation!
When I installed the Synergy on my old Sport that I had lifted, I didn't immediately have access to a socket to remove the sector shaft nut so I installed it without the bushing, just the track bar brace. This removed the frame flex and most of the improvement in steering came from the installation of the brace alone and not the bushing/holder. But I do agree the Synergy is a tad under-engineered and once installed seemed very... jerry-rigged. I've told people to just get the Rusty's track bar brace for half the cost since the frame brace alone does wonders, and I recommend it even for a stock Wrangler if it's a Rubicon or if you're running 285/70's or Rubicon take-offs.
Yea, I’m pretty sure steersmarts has just the trackbar brace as well… But totally agree even the trackbar brace has alot of benefits by itself! Thanks for the comment and watching! 🙌
You’re saying this similar bracket in the video has steering feel Improvents but from Rusty’s ?
Great video! I literally JUST ordered the SteerSmarts setup for the JT last night. I kind of figured you were going to recommend that one. Still doing some Synergy steering components on the truck (probably drag link and tie rod), but I'm using SteerSmarts for the track bar/sector shaft brace and the track bar relocation bracket. I'm still running the Synergy version on my JK but I don't even see a JK version of this setup. I'm guessing they're not doing new products for JK at this point?
I mean, I would imagine they would be. So much money In Tht market. But glad you enjoyed the video brother! 😉 and the shout out!
Be safe my man!
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD I just heard from SteerSmarts that they are working on a JK version of this. Plan is to have it out by the end of the year.
And I did enjoy the shout out! My first in a TH-cam video!
Great comparison.
Thanks Mike! Always appreciate you!
I have the synergy brace. I also thought the aluminum sector brace was kinda cheap. Once I upgraded to the big bore gearbox you dont need that part. Another great video..
It’s kinda a factor if I wanna dump $3k into upgrading the steering system 😂
I’ll keep limping around in my set up as long as I can 😂
Thanks for watching brother!
Bolts look to be hot dipped galvanized? But I am not holding them in there hand!
Excellent video, would this be needed on a stock sport jt ,no lift and stock 32s?
Hmmm… I’m fairly confident you need some lift for this. To avoid rubbing issues
I thought I would chime in after running both...Synergy on a JL and Steersmarts on a JT.
Steersmarts has better mounting system to the sector shaft. But it lacks the clearance from the track bar compared Synergy.
Synergy's aluminum sector shaft brace has issues with the bolts backing off.
If you are running a low lift or leveling kit watch the clearance between the track bar and the sector shaft bearing housing.
My brass ring spun on my Synergy and the nut surface dried up and started to rub/stick. They sent me a new aluminum bearing block for free and charged me $15 for the new style pitman arm nut.
They charged you for the part u needed? Tht was deficient?
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD I think they consider the defective original bearing block design a warranty item but not the pitman arm nut improvement. The new bearing block now comes with a set screw that keeps the brass ring from spinning. Problem is that the hole drilled for the set screw was drilled from the outside in leaving burs on the inside edge of the ring that that presses against the nut when turning.
Nice job man
Thanks!
And thank you for watching!
Hell yeah! I’m all about them tight rides!
I mean… who ain’t!? 😂
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD 🤣
Great vid. It’s a no brainer. How is the paint on your metal cloak control arms holding up. I just traded in my Jl Sahara for a gladiator rubicon and am looking for a lift. I like the mental cloak but the finish makes it look cheap.
It’s actually holding up well…. Especially for all the rock rubbing I do with em… I’ll try to squeeze out a video showing how Thts been holding up soon for u
Amd congrats on the truck upgrade!
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD cool, thanks
Metal cloak has the best joints out there
Bah I saw this 30 minutes after I ordered the synergy unit from Quadtrec. They wouldn't cancel it. At least it came with the new bearing, red loctite and new bolts for the steel steering box.
I have the Synergy version and the bronze sleeve would work my pitman nut loose. On the same trip I had to stop and tighten the pitman nut. Eventually I just took the aluminum housing off and just ran the brace alone for support. I will be going with the SS version
Did you contact synergy customer service? Iv never been very lucky with them.
Wow that's pretty insane.
Sounds like your working for steer smart. The bushing is bronze and it doesn't touch the sector shaft. It rides on the provided sector shaft nut and sleeve that comes with it. Also being bronze it's softer and not touching the shaft I don't think it can mar the shaft.
Hey hey! I just got the email today with the new Metalcloak - Sector Shaft Brace, JL Wrangler | JT Gladiator. Take a look. I have been wanting to put one in but hesitated. This looks like a very nice option with less moving parts and opportunities to break/bend. Have ya seen it? Thoughts?
Definitely less… hmm… the contact points seem bare bones…. Granted, not a major ‘flex’ zone. I still like steersmarts… but this MC one is significantly cheaper
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD I reached out to see what they say. With my 37x13.5x17 tires I am sure I have some movement down there :)
@@AZRubicon1 lol, I bet 😂
I just bought a new '23 Rubicon 392 and it wanders all over the road. I'm wondering if this will fix it...
I'm in need of installing a sector shaft brace in my 2020 JL. How did the SteerSmarts perform vs the Synergy? I've owned my JL for a couple of years now and the steering is really loose. I put a 3" lift with 295x60s. I'm getting to go up to 37s but want to stiffen the steering first. Note, I'm looking at changing the control arms, track bars, tie rods and drag link to the MetalCloak parts.
Well theres a helluva statement!! Lmao 🤣🤣 why don't you tell us how you really feel!?? Seriously...how many takes before you hit the garage can??😅😅👍👍👍
😂 2!
I'm sold
You forgot your close out! 🤙 That synergy piece must have really got to you..
Lol, when I was filming… editing… I figured it was to out of place…. Now that u called me on it…. I feel like I missed the mark 😑
Hey Mo! Not said it in awhile. J 10 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
I know! I need to get tht thing rolling!
Love hearing from you brother!
The synergy BRACKET is 100% stronger because of the gusset on the back side. But the bearing on steer smarts has to be 100% better the the aluminum and bushing setup.
Great vid bro! Give the viewer pros and cons based on YOUR experience, and let THEM choose. One thing I think would've been a good point was that Synergy had theirs out 3 yrs ago. Wonder why it took SS this long? Especially now that the factory track bar bracket and gear box issues have been resolved since we bought OUR Jeeps.🤔 People buying a new Jeep now, aren't likely to have the issues WE did, and people like us, who've had their JL's 3 yrs or longer have already addressed the issue.
Man, even if jeep fixed it, having a track bar brace is necessary imho… Thts so much leverage and tension under tht thin joint….it’s only a matter of time before tht thin joint snaps…
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD Very possible.
great content
Realizing I need more coffee to be able to accept such a "blaaaaaah and screen smash" this early ....However this is how you roll - I get learned with all your stuff! Awesome sauce stuff mang' !!!!!
Lmao, to much energy, huh?
You and Misty both running 37's on the stock steering box right? I want to upgrade to 37's in the next few years and was thinking I would add a PSC big bore steering box. Could a Steer Smart sector shaft brace allow me to get by with my current JK steering box?
Stock set up? I. Pretty sure they have one for tht 🤔
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD ya running stock steering box on 37’s? No hydro assist?
Great video. Thanks man
the ratio of strength of aluminium to steel is 3to1....so in this case the aluminium part has to be 1.5 inches to be as strong
so does this just put a bandaid on worn out parts
Does it fit on a right hand drive car
On a different note...do you still recommend the Metal Cloak GC 3.5 with Rocksports shocks?
The lift has been great, and is what I recommend when people ask. The shocks…. Are good cheap shocks….
But I’m looking to upgrade em…
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD
Thanks for the reply.
I think the sealed bearing sold me. It’s simple off the shelf part and shouldn’t wear out on you.
Awesome, glad I could help you make a decision!
Noisy? Mine wasn't noisy at all. I really think you're trying to hard. Now I remember why I quite watching you vids.
I got the gearbox upgrade on my JL do you believe this would help more with the steering?
Just wanted to say I love your videos and keep up the good work
So it really depends on what types of things you are doing in your jeep. I do stupid things and like my stuff reenforced everywhere things are under pressure.
If you want this JUST for stiffer steering (and you have the upgraded steering box), thou can help, its not a huge difference. If you like to flex out the Jeep and climb stupid big rocks, this adds so much more steel to the TB joint. Iv seen Jeeps track bars brackets rip right off and trail fixes are never easy with those.
Got it thanks
Where you get the steer smart.¿
Link in description
I think your misinformed about thread locker on aluminum. According to their website says no problem with Aluminum you use a torch to heat it when you want to remove the bolt.
It’s a general rule, thread lock and aluminum don’t mix well. Which I have learned after making this video, loctite makes aluminum specific thread lock, it’s purple. Never seen in store thou 🤷♂️ just online
shots fired
😬 “GET DOWN!”
So need anyone to take the synergy one off your hands? Id like to test it out.
I'll sell you mine for $100
$50 ? Since you want to part with it?
@@eriksoliwon4618 Thanks for the offer. For $50 it's worth me keeping.
I've had both and I think steersmarts is better
Good sir, glad we could agree 😂
I had the same exact issues with mine. I kept spraying silicon lubricant on it , finally I removed it
I’m all about less maintenance man…. The less time I’m tinkering on the jeep, the more time I’m living my life and having fun
Or…. Working lol
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD agree 👍, however I just added a 1999 tj sahara to my jeep family, just ordered metalcloak longarm kit, tires wheels, lockers, brakes ect..🤪, so I'll be doing a bunch of tinkering on that. And heated seats for it. Lol . Just finishedputting in sound dentener, boomate, and bedrug . Omg those jeeps are loud. .
Thickness doesn't matter because it's only as strong as frame Thickness witch is 3/16.
😂😂😂
Ending?
Yes 😂
I am sure you pissed Dave Schlossberg so much, he will sneak into your backyard and use your bbq grill and not clean up afterwards.
To bad steer smart is not sold for my jeep
Man this guy is working hard to bash Synergy. Both products work as intended. Most of your bashing on the Synergy is irrelevant and the products works fine.
Obviously a paid promotion.
Just bandaids... Get a big bore box
Yes and no. I agree it’s a cheaper ‘solution’ for the loose steering, but Reinforcing the trackbar bracket on the frame is a must. what Jeep put in will not last the test of time and wheeling.
@@JLLIFEOFFROAD I upgraded to a PSC Big Bore Box kit. I also have a brace for the track bar. the sector shaft brace is nice but doesn't fix the real issue, weak under powered gear box. I would highly recommend it for anyone over 35s.
I totally agree,
Does it fit in right hand drive too