if the strut thing looks like a shock and is bolted to the tie rod, yes it is a steering stabilizer. beefy is not really needed with these, as most trucks dont have any stabilizer anyway. (i took mine off actually). HOWEVER...if the strut thing is a solid bar that goes from the axle to the frame, it is your panhard rod, and it keeps the axle from moving left to right under the truck. if the bushings in the eyes of that rod are worn, the axle will flop around while you drive and make your truck wiggle everywhere.