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-   -   Loose Steering? (https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/loose-steering-31923/)

JeePaul Dec 18, 2009 10:47 AM

Loose Steering?
 
A quick call for advice..

I have a pretty standard XJ Cherokee, it's not lifted, it's spotless and it'll never go offroad (not in Central London anyway!).

I recently hit a barrier and had the entire front axle replaced. I took opportunity and replaced the original wheels with 20" Lenso's on low profile tyres that I bought off a 300C owner and I used his spacers too. The car rides about half an inch lower now.

The problem is that the steering feels loose, like there's play in it. (I'm also getting tramlined when I hit an uneven surface though this could be due to the new fatter tyres). I'm not sure if it is loose, has worn bushes or was always like this and I forgot as I was driving some tight little european sports cars while it was laid up!

If there's a quick solution, a known issue or just something I should be paying attention to, let me know. If there's a way to make it steer sharper for prosperity, I'd like to know that too.

Thanks for reading!

Abovetimberline Dec 18, 2009 11:30 AM

Jack it up where both tires are of the ground and have someone move the steering wheel for you and check for any slop,check from the pitman arm through the tie rod,check ball joints,should be tight,make sure when the wheel is turned there is no delay in the steering box. If there is play you will be able to see it.

xj4life2 Dec 18, 2009 11:35 AM


Originally Posted by Abovetimberline (Post 362851)
Jack it up where both tires are of the ground and have someone move the steering wheel for you and check for any slop,check from the pitman arm through the tie rod,check ball joints,should be tight,make sure when the wheel is turned there is no delay in the steering box. If there is play you will be able to see it.

Follow these instructions however I would leave it on the ground, It will show you exactly whats loose.


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