I have gone through the threads and have not found the answer to my issue. I have a 90 xj that the steering seems to be loose. I am not talking about the issues everyone else seems to have with the wheel actually being loose (i fixed that one) but when driving there seems to be some lag when turning from left to right or correcting, it will just all of a sudden just decide to finally turn. I can go maybe 3" and nothing then turn some more and it will finally go the full amount I have turned. I have checked all of the links and they are all tight, so the problem resides some where between my fire wall and steering box. thanks.

 

Does it feel like the steering wheel catches then releases? that is a power steering pump issue or the u-joint in the collum.

 

My '92 does the exact same thing. Everything has been replaced or checked. It seems to be all good. I guess its normal.

My '87 has a MUCH quicker steering response. It is RIGHT THERE when you turn the wheel only a little bit.

Something changed from AMC to Chrysler as time went by.

 

i would say something with your power steering any leaks maybe a seal went bad on my 96 it has pretty good steering what you guys describe is not normal my geuss would be something with the power steering. One other thing you could check is make sure were the steering box mounts to the frame the frame isnt broke this is a common weak spot of the frames and could cause the issue you have

 

I think it may be the alignment. I am going to give a go at fixing that first and if I cant do it or make it worse I guess Ill be getting it done.

 

Replaced:
Tires
left outer tie rod end (MOOG)
center link tie rod end (MOOG)
anti-sway bar end links (MOOG)
alignment
steering box
power steering pump
power steering pressure hose
shocks from worn out originals to Monroe Sensa-Trac
has stock ride height with LT235/75R15C tires on factory 5-spoke wheels

 

when I have had similar problems I have jacked up the front and had someone slowly turn the wheel and see where the problem is,and move the tire around see if it maybe the ball joints,bearings etc.