Steering Issue
#1
Newbie
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Model: Cherokee
Steering Issue
Hi, I am new to this site. I apologize in advance if I have posted this in the wrong section.
I have a 1992 Cherokee Laredo and the steering shaft appears to be loose just at the universal joint. I have video so hopefully that will help visually.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1DZ0...ature=youtu.be
I am not sure what to do to fix the issue (properly).
I have a 1992 Cherokee Laredo and the steering shaft appears to be loose just at the universal joint. I have video so hopefully that will help visually.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1DZ0...ature=youtu.be
I am not sure what to do to fix the issue (properly).
#2
CF Veteran
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Wisconsin
Posts: 5,302
Likes: 0
Received 21 Likes
on
18 Posts
Model: Cherokee
The isolator is slipping. That section just before the joint is injection-filled with plastic and it's lost it's grip on the shaft. The only correct fix for that is to replace the shaft.
#3
Newbie
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Model: Cherokee
Is this a major safety concern or can it wait about 2 weeks (when I get paid again)
Also, what is the technical name for the steering shaft I need to replace? I want to make sure I am ordering the correct piece.
Thank you.
Also, what is the technical name for the steering shaft I need to replace? I want to make sure I am ordering the correct piece.
Thank you.
#5
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Goshen Ohio
Posts: 618
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Year: 1993
Model: Cherokee
Engine: I6
If that's the shaft it's a intermediate steering shaft. That could be bad if those u-joints give in that. You wouldn't have any steering and the Jeep would go where ever it wants. Mine the u-joint closest to the fire wall is starting to seize up. I have knots in the steering unless I spray pb blaster on it these it loosens up. I would get changed asap. Around here new they run bout 120 dollars
Trending Topics
#10
Member
Join Date: Nov 2012
Location: New Zealand
Posts: 149
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
With your universal joint loose like that, is your steering when driving straight very sloppy or wanders? I would replace the shaft.
#11
Newbie
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Model: Cherokee
The universal joint was never loose. The metal connector sleeve (don't know proper name) was slipping on the shaft. Refer to the sloppy picture below. The bolts and shaft are holding up fine. I did a strength test just to be sure. The fix is holding with no issues. Steering is straight and immediately responsive now. Does not wander at all anymore.
#12
Do you understand the purpose of the slip-joint?
As normal function it allows for some fore and aft movement as the vehicle twists/flexes. Disabling it places more stress on the steering box and steering column.
In a collision your XJ (like all cars/trucks) is designed to crumple. This absorbs energy and protects you. The slip shaft is supposed to collapse (slide together) in a head-on collision. By bolting it together you prevent this from happening.
Get a new replacement from your favorite parts house, or even from a JY in your area.
#15
CF Veteran
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Wisconsin
Posts: 5,302
Likes: 0
Received 21 Likes
on
18 Posts
Model: Cherokee
You are probably better off than you were with the isolator slipping...if that lets loose you can lose your steering entirely. But I'd change the shaft as soon as you can. A good shock load will likely snap the shaft where it's been drilled and you've lost one line of defense against a frontal impact. (there are several points where the shaft is designed to collapse while still retaining the ability to steer, the collapsible upper section is just one of them.)
Please replace it as soon as you can.