Steering column noise

[Pineapple124]

Hi all
hoping for some direction about this column noise
seems that the steering wheel can rock back and forth with a clunking.
didn’t always do it, its kinda grown.
iLl try to attach a vid of the noise
stock LJ 2005. Ive had for 8 years, dd and not offroad
thanks in advance!

 

[KennethS]

Look at the lower steering shaft under the hood. There is a slip connection with a rubber(?) sleeve that may be the source of the noise.

 

[TJ Jim]

slip connection with a rubber

Rag joint

 

[KennethS]

This is the part I was referring to.

The shaft connecting to the steering box slips into a rubber "sleeve" and that can degrade so the shaft moves around and the retainer pin clunks against the sides of the hole.

 

[C.J. Roberts]

The upper shaft has a bearing that can wear out. Mine was more of a groaning, but if it's not under the hood, it could well be that mid bearing.

 

[Pineapple124]

Thanks for the replies!
it seems as though the sound comes from behind the steering wheel.
I’ll start looking into what you’ve mentioned.
Anyone know where to find an exploded view?

 

[Pineapple124]

Sorted!
took to a local shop to diagnose and they found the upper steering shaft had play,
(the source of that noise) the trackbar and bolt had play, and the lower control arms were rotted.
so now it tracks straight without constant input, doesn't have that dead spot in the steering and no more column noise.