Maybe this applies to more JKs than TJs, but for crossover steering setups, what measurements matter in regards to the location where the drag link mounts to the knuckle? I know the distance between the mounting point and the steering inclination axis will affect the steering rate, but what about moving that mounting location inboard? That wouldn't affect Ackerman at all, right, that is only affected by the tie rod? The only issue I can imagine is if you moved the mount so far inboard that the linkages flip the wrong way when turning hard left.
The issue is, "Why mess up your steering geometry?"
Ah, well I have JK axles in my TJ, so that would be a lot of effort to take a step backwards. The reason for the thread is I'm seeing if I can do a tie rod flip on stock JK knuckles, then relocate the drag link hole so the two links clear. If you go OTK with the tie rod, the joint will hit the drag link arm on the knuckle. Just moving the hole for the drag link vertically would cause the end to hit the rim, so it would need to be moved inwards too. I'll do a separate thread on that if I actually go through with it, just trying to figure out if the geometry part even makes sense.
Nothing wrong with crossover steering in a TJ - but it takes a hell of a lot of work to get it right. You've not touched on one of the most important issues, which is getting your track bar and drag link parallel and operating in the same plane at the axle side. If this is not done correctly, you wind up with bump steer. Getting all the components to play nicely together, and clear the frame and everything else within the context of the TJ's footprint - especially at full bump - is no small feat.
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You may find some helpful clues in these pics from Mr Blaine .
http://justaddrocks.com/Steering Pictures/steering.htm
http://justaddrocks.com/Steering Pictures/steering.htm
Agreed, I'm currently doing modifications to get my drag link and track bar the same length, parallel to each other, and as close to flat as I can. I fully intend to notch my frame if needed. The main reason behind this thread is to see if I can get my drag link higher on the axle side, but just flipping it in the existing JK knuckle hole puts the joint inside the rim without excessive use of wheel spacers (which would be any use of wheel spacers IMO). I've been driving around with an improperly done crossover steering setup from my JK axle swap for about 5 years now, enough is enough lol.
Much appreciated this is very helpful. Aware of a writeup or thread on this?
He has JK axles. A stock solution is no longer the answer. It will need custom steering and track bar.
In a perfect setup your drag link and track bar will be parallel and same length.
In a perfect setup your drag link and track bar will be parallel and same length.
Definitely do a thread on what you are doing. Lot’s of good knowledge and good folks here to help. And welcome to the forum.
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https://www.rockjock4x4.com/RJ-420000-101
Don’t have any personal experience other than Rockjock generally gets steering right
Don’t have any personal experience other than Rockjock generally gets steering right
I went ahead and did that, https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/doing-it-the-hard-way.67710/
I'll try to keep all of my oddball questions there moving forward just so its all in one spot. And thanks for the welcome!