Sincere thanks to Chris for the ZJ Conversion post, I went ahead and gave it a shot. Purchased the items from Amazon and followed the step by step instructions, it was a very straightforward process once I got into it. Truly appreciate the information Chris!
Also replaced front wheel bearings and disc brakes while I was at it. Collectively these have about 95% solved all of the sway or "blowing in the wind" and bump steer sensation I was getting while driving.
The mechanic at the shop where I had the Front Wheel Alignment done had advised that I should get a new Steering Gear Box soon, indicated that my unit has some play in it and that while they were lining up the steering wheel, the first 1/8 +/- of rotation in either direction didn't have any response on steer at the gear box.
When I was installing the new Drag Link, the old Pitman Arm wouldn't come off and my puller couldn't get the tie rod end out, so I ended up cutting off the old pitman arm. It showed signs of having been beaten (severely) with a hammer by the previous owner, perhaps that explains some of the slop in the Steering Gear Box today?
Before & After pics attached.
Also replaced front wheel bearings and disc brakes while I was at it. Collectively these have about 95% solved all of the sway or "blowing in the wind" and bump steer sensation I was getting while driving.
The mechanic at the shop where I had the Front Wheel Alignment done had advised that I should get a new Steering Gear Box soon, indicated that my unit has some play in it and that while they were lining up the steering wheel, the first 1/8 +/- of rotation in either direction didn't have any response on steer at the gear box.
When I was installing the new Drag Link, the old Pitman Arm wouldn't come off and my puller couldn't get the tie rod end out, so I ended up cutting off the old pitman arm. It showed signs of having been beaten (severely) with a hammer by the previous owner, perhaps that explains some of the slop in the Steering Gear Box today?
Before & After pics attached.
