Well I don't have an OBDll scan tool myself. just had it scanned at the local parts store with theirs.

 

New development... haven't had time to revisit this until now... however... there is a new development that seems like it may be related.
As posted, the airbag light was staying illuminated on the dash. Well now... the horn has just quit working.... Think that's related?... if so, what do ya'll think it might be related to?
TIA!

 

From what I have read in the past both those symptoms seem to "classic" clockspring problem things.

 

son of a rat... I suspected as much... guess I'm just gonna have to bite the bullet and buy a new one.
I'll research some vids...but anyone replace one in the final XJ generation with any tips?
I'm working around an airbag with basically an explosive device attached to it. Would rather it didn't go off in my face. lol

BTW... thanks Ralph.. appreciate ya my fellow Jeep brother.

 

Google how to add cruise control to an XJ Jeep.
Also remember that which one you get is dependent on whether you have cruise control or not.
Also be aware if you have cruise but don't care can use one the non cruise control one if you want.
Be cheaper.
I know for a fact that the Napa steering wheel removal tool that hopefully your Napa rents for free will work.
Well not really free. You pay for it and then get your money back when you return it. LOL.
If you go the boneyard route try to make sure the wheels are straight on the boneyard Jeep.
If not it is not the end of the world cause there is a recentering procedure.
There are 2 "clips" in the back. I use the word loosely cause they really don't clip into anything but just go through slots so it doesn't rotate in there.
They like to snap. Google some images if you go the boneyard route so you will see what I am talking about.
When you remove it secure the 2 halves, if the wheels were straight, so they don't rotate on each other and get out of center.
Make sure the wheels are straight on your Jeep.
Disconnect the battery and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Something about capacitors discharging.
Last after everything is all buttoned up start the Jeep from the passenger side.
Just in case.
LOL.

 

Thanks for the tips there Ralph.... especially that last one. Lol.
Are the clock springs difficult to replace? Or just cost a bit of coin?
Me personally...I don't plan on selling the XJ anytime soon. Had her for going on 6 years now and other than minor normal maintenance replacement stuff has been a pretty solid vehicle. And fairly cheap on parts compared to most vehicles out there.

 

Anyone have recommendations on brand of clockspring? The jeep is staying around so am planning on going with a new part... not rolling the dice on a used one.

 

Do you have cruise control or not?
Probably cost but if Mopar ones are still available.
Otherwise I don't think there is a lot to choose from.
You might just be limited to Dorman or Crown when it comes to that.
And any auto parts store that sell one my guess is would be a rebranded Dorman.

 

yeah it's got factory cruise control. While it's not used often, would like everything it came with to function correctly. So a bit extra for that is okay with me.
I'm not finding the Mopar one in stock where I normally order online... guessing that one would be quite expensive though...
I've gotten other Crown products in the past for the jeep and were decent... would you say Crown is above Dorman, equal? or below? Doesn't have to be mopar if their price is super high... just a reasonable cost for a reliable replacement is what I'm really looking for.

 

Part is on it's way... hopefully will get it in time to install this weekend.
I found the torque spec of 40 ft.lbs. if that's correct. Is it also recommended to use any level of thread-lock on the nut when reinstalling?

 

Whoever designed the clockspring should be flogged. In this design, it is not a matter of if it will fail, it's when. The ribbon wire is folded at a 45 degree angle. After 20+ years, the wire will break and you will lose continuity. It is possible to repair it. Check the pictures in post #4 on this thread: https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/clo...erokee-168791/. That sharp fold will never survive. I tried to repair mine on my 99 and 98, but was clumsy with solder and it broke again after a few months so just got new ones.
I have had the steering wheel off my 98 and 99 several times and have never used any kind of thread lock. Make sure you get a steering wheel puller. When removing or replacing the airbag, I always sit in the passenger seat just in case. Typically, I disconnect the battery, put the terminals together to discharge any capacitance and then wait a few minutes befoe disconnecting the airbag. Good luck.

 

Well... mine has lasted for nearly 25 years of service... so I really can't complain too much if I'm being honest.

 

yeah... I've never taken it off my XJ...but I've done several repairs where on vehicles that I've had to remove the steering wheel (with airbag)... so I know to dissipate all residual charge in the wiring by disconnecting the battery and allowing any stored current to discharge first.
Don't want that going off while you're working on it. I do have a steering wheel puller to make the job easier. Thanks for the tip on not needing to use thread lock. I figure if it's not on there from the factory... probably not required. Those engineers are paid a lot of money to get that right for a production vehicle.

 

Got the clock spring squared away...now for some reason the turn signal module decided to take a poo..... half of the switch works... I can engage the high-beams...but the turn signal part of the stock has poo'd itself apparently.

 

I'm wondering if there is a loose ground somewhere. I had quite the time trying to find my turn signal/hazard/headlight gremlin.

Finally found the problem in my latest video.

Todd