thicks

Hi all - New to me '96 XJ 2WD stock with 164K. When turning at moderate speed - interchange cloverleaf for example - the steering tugs. Not violently, but like there's a lot of play somewhere causing a slight lateral bounce every second or so. No noise, tracks fine on freeway, no other issues. Could this be a worn steering box/pitman arm do you think? What else should I check?

Thanks!

bluejeep2001

not familiar with 2wd front ends but on 4wd when the steering tugs its the u-joints in the axles

TrailerTrash

my first thought aswell.

Check thr wheel bearings

cruiser54

If you can't check it yourself, have a reputable shop look at it. It's the steering for crying out loud.

thicks

Thanks all. Will get it in the air and check it out this weekend. Appreciate the responses.

TrailerTrash

Let us know what you find

andjones

Some 2wd came with a limited slip rear differential. Its possible this could cause your issue.

That Jeep Guy XJMJ

Would you mind explaining this? How does a limited slip in the rear cause the front wheels to bump steer?

andjones

A limited slip differential would not cause bump steer. Bump steer is related to the front end components and is not the problem you are describing.

A limited slip differential does exactly what the term describes, it applies a soft lock to the rear differential causing both wheels to spin at the same rpm while going in a straight line or during loss of traction by one drive wheel. During a turn the limited slip is supposed to allow normal differential action, but it's possible for it to slip ,then grip, then slip.......etc. If the differential is gripping during a turn, it will cause the vehicle to push, then when it slips the vehicle turns normally. This action would most likely be felt in the steering similar to what you describe. If you have a limited slip differential correcting this issue may be as simple as draining the gear lube and replacing it with the correct lube for this type of differential.

That Jeep Guy XJMJ

I think OP should be looking into their steering components vs an endeavor into weather or not the rear end is LSD equipped