So I know this is a very common problem in TJ's and in Jeeps in general. So much that my '06 had it (and my XJ before it) and I knew there were many things that improve that. I travel frequently with the family so having stability on the road to be able to do above 60/mph is a must. I started building my Jeep last year and have changed the following, suspension wise, so far, if it matters:
I did some research and thought that it could be the upper or lower steering shaft as it seems to be a common problem, however, I tried manually moving the shaft, with the jeep at ground level, turned off, to check for any play and I noticed that the actual steering gear moves along while moving the shaft manually so am thinking whether that is supposed to happen or not? What I understand is that if the problem was on the steering shaft it would move but the piston itself in the steering gear box shouldn't.
I'm kinda new to this so before taking it back to the mechanic or even asking for a replacement I'd thought I'd rather ask for second opinions first. Maybe its just an adjustment? If the case was that the part is yet again faulty I may just simply ask for a refund since this would be the 2nd one and for the premium price I'd expect better quality control.
I'm attaching a couple of short videos which show what I'm trying to explain better. Sorry if I mistake any part name, still learning. Appreciate any guidance you guys can give!
Play in upper steering shaft:
Play in new steering gear:
- JKS adjustable track bar
- JKS quicker disconnect links
- New sway bar bushings
- OME Steering damper / stabilizer
- RE 4" coil springs
- Bilstein's 5100
- PSC SG-400 Steering Gear
- PSC steering pump kit
- New hoses
- BFG KO's 33"s
I did some research and thought that it could be the upper or lower steering shaft as it seems to be a common problem, however, I tried manually moving the shaft, with the jeep at ground level, turned off, to check for any play and I noticed that the actual steering gear moves along while moving the shaft manually so am thinking whether that is supposed to happen or not? What I understand is that if the problem was on the steering shaft it would move but the piston itself in the steering gear box shouldn't.
I'm kinda new to this so before taking it back to the mechanic or even asking for a replacement I'd thought I'd rather ask for second opinions first. Maybe its just an adjustment? If the case was that the part is yet again faulty I may just simply ask for a refund since this would be the 2nd one and for the premium price I'd expect better quality control.
I'm attaching a couple of short videos which show what I'm trying to explain better. Sorry if I mistake any part name, still learning. Appreciate any guidance you guys can give!
Play in upper steering shaft:
Play in new steering gear: