View Full Version : Steering Problem
XLSLC
01-16-2005, 10:45 PM
Background, I've got a '95 ZJ 3.5" lifted. SO... driving down Berthoud Pass (on US 40 in Colorado, pretty gnarly at some spots), coming around a switchback, my steering goes. I pull over and discover that my track bar has completely disconnected itself from the front axle. Lucky I didn't f**king die on the highway. Anyway, got a mountain man to hook me up with a little bolt to tide me over until I got back to Boulder. Now I have replaced the bolt and the track bar is fine, but whenever I make a right turn the steering wheel doesn't engage the wheels until it's at about 45-60 degrees to the right. There is also a wierd feeling, like something is slipping over something else in that gap between the wheel being straight and to the right. I know that's not very descriptive but I figure if you've had this problem then you will know what I'm talking about.
If anyone has any ideas that would be sweet.
LouisianaZJ
01-16-2005, 11:19 PM
what t-bar do you have?
replace the bolt with a grade 8 and lockwasher if the new bolt is not already grade 8
make sure the both the axle and frame bolts are hella tight, like at least 60 ft lbs. and check the bushings
a very small amount of play (like just 1mm) in the t-bar can make the steering very, very loose
it is possible the force of the t-bar giving could have compromised the bolts that hold the steering gear on to the frame, or messed up a tre
robselina
01-16-2005, 11:54 PM
post some pics. Mine had tre's all around, so no bolts.....
XLSLC
01-17-2005, 01:08 AM
Stock t-bar with a new hole drilled in the same bracket, not sure what a tre is. I'll work on some pics tomorrow.
JpRngr
01-17-2005, 01:36 AM
TRE=Tie Rod End
I would check everything especially your steering box for looseness. Wouldn't be surprised if your mishap loosened it from the frame.
Corey
Check to make sure that the axle side hole is not rounded out - does the bolt fit in securely with no play?
XLSLC
01-17-2005, 09:33 PM
The axle side hole IS rounded out a bit and there is potential for play. I have it tightened very tight but I guess that could be it... makes sense.
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