Hey guys, sorry I have been mia lately.

Just got though reworking a few bugs in the jeep

Replaced the radiator as well as the turn signal socket, but now I am facing a new problem.

Specs on jeep are as follows:
1989 Cherokee Limited
4.5" RC lift
31 x 10.50 BFG A/T on factory rims
Adj Trac Bar
D30/D35 combo

Okay here is the problem. I noticed the other day that my steering seemed to be binding almost. Well I check the PS pump and it looked nasty. Fluid was really brown and didnt seem to be circulating. At the same time I was having a seroius ATF leak at the radiator. So I went ahead and replaced the radiator and the PS pump at them sametime. So take it out for a test drive and I still have the binding steering feel. It will turn easy, stick and then free up. It does this is no matter which direction also. I also notice a metal thunking noise when ever I go across some bump. Its almost like a old worn out shock sound, but I have brand new shocks on her. My first guess was maybe the drag line was loose, but everything seems tight. So my next guess is maybe installing a drop pitman arm.

So what do you Xj gurus think? Will a drop pitman arm help?

 

Usually not. Sounds like a bad steering box to me but I would have to feel the binding you are trying to describe to be sure. Have someone turn the wheel while you make double sure it is not hitting on anything.
Dropped pitman arms usually complicate the steering geometry. They put a greater load on the steering box and don't usually help solve anything. JMHO.

 

Make sure the shimmy shock ain't bent.

 

Thanks for the info guys, I will give her another good once over.

Blue - The binding feel isnt like its locking up, its more of a stiffening then coming loose. Its almost like running low on PS fluid.

jonB8 - Shimmy shock? Are you referring to the steering damper?