I've noticed that my jeep (94 XJ) sort of hops when I make a sharp left turn at slow speed. I have a Dana 35 back there and a 2 inch lift (back only) and a NP242J TC that has a slow leak. This hop occurs when in 2WD, haven't looked for it when in AWD.

Anyone know why this is and what to do about it?

 

it's probably associated with axle wrap, usually caused by weak leaf springs and amplified by blocks.

 

Wow, that was fast!

Is there something that can be done about it and does it affect normal driving (as in putting more strain on parts) or is it ok as long as I'm not trying to turn like a Volvo?

 

it's eventually probably going to snap those springs... You're looking at a new set of leaf packs... preferably ones that'll get you the height you want without blocks, or at least using longer shackles instead of blocks.

this is what I'm talking about when I say axle wrap.

 

Thank you for helping a suspension rookie out, have some more newb questions about this; if they do snap – will that most likely happen when turning or could they pop when going 80 down the freeway?

I looked around for new springs but am a bit confused, they come in light, medium and heavy load – why not just go for the heavy load right off the bat?

Looking at these (http://rustysoffroad.com/mm5/merchan...gory_Code=LEAF), I'm not sure if they fit without blocks or not?

edit.
Forgot to add, I checked the old ad from the guy I bought the Jeep off, and the leaf springs on only have about 600 miles on them and are heavy duty ones. It never happens when turning right either.

 

Those springs will give you 3.5" of lift without blocks or shackles.

As for when they finally break? no telling... could be under acceleration, could be under deceleration, could be turning, could be when you hit a bump. One things for sure, you're gonna like the way it drives with new leaf springs.

 

Oh ok, sounds ominous, especially since the part where the left side leaf attaches got a bad checkmark for rust at the last inspection.

Might be getting them then, tax return over here was today so the Jeep should be getting an early xmas.

 

Took some pics of the leaf springs that are on right now, and being a pretty recent jeep owner; I'm not sure if these have the "block" for lift or if they are the heavy duty that the PO said?
When looking at the jeep from the side they don't look like they bend upward.

 

stock no blocks. I would check the brakes for binding. e-brake cable would be my first guess. axle wrap tends to snap u-joints.

 

Ah, interesting, I got a very low mark on my rear brakes at the last inspection although the e-brake got high marks. Could that be related u think, brakes being on and wearing down? It's a 94 with drums.

 

Check to see if all wheels spin easily by jacking up one at a time. Maybe the break came unseated?

 

You talking about where the leaf connects all the way at the back of the jeep? That's a shackle