XJwonders

Starting lately that when I start my jeep up and turn on ac, I start to drive away but the steering wheel is really hard to turn, unless I press on gas then its fine after that.

If I didn't turn on the ac, then it turns fine

I'm wondering if that is indicative that the serpentine belt is getting worn out?

XJwonders

Also I would like to add that whenever I turn on ac, the battery gauge always move the needle to negative and "check gauge" always come on.

That's why I figured it was worn belt. Cause the ac clutch is putting more load on the belt, thus making alternator and power steering pump harder to turn?

I did tighten on the tensioner a bit. Doesn't help

MtnHermit

Either the belt or the alternator. With the belt off, turn the alternator pulley. Should spin free and easy. If not, new alternator time.

XJwonders

Yeah it spins freely.

freegdr

What year?Automatic tensioner ? Does motor idle way down?

XJwonders

99 4.0L

offroadordnance

Get a Krikit and check belt tension should be #160ish IIRC. My belt did the same thing Until I set the right tension, it was previously around #100.

freegdr

1/4 turn adjustment .

XJwonders

So today while on my lunch break, I was inside the jeep so I can cool down with ac on while jeeps running....

What happened was that the jeep overheated while idling. Good thing I turned it off in time.

I'm starting to really think that the serpentine belt is to be blamed. I did tighten it 1/4 turn last week. When I touched the belt to check the tension, it was really hot. Is that normal?

freegdr

Remove belt spin everthing it rides on see if something fishy .

XJwonders

Good idea.

So u think maybe one of pulleys is not spinning normally as it should be, causing drag, thus slowing down the belt?

freegdr

Its a good place to start.

XJwonders

My friend gave me a half can of belt conditioner and he sprayed it on for me. Plus I again adjusted the tension by 1/4 turn. He says the belt definitely quieted down but the noise is still there

Solomon7

Need a new belt for sure. Get a Krikit II belt tension gauge as well (8 bucks iirc). The belts on XJ's need to be A LOT tighter than you'd think.
Get a Gates brand belt. IIRC NAPA carries Gates belts.

Also, overheating at idle, all other cooling parts working, indicates a failed mechanical fan clutch. Replace it.
They only last a few years at best, and they're 40 bucks, and cake to replace.
The "spin test" for them is inaccurate at best so just replace it.
While you're at it get a new radiator cap, 16lbs. Good to replace them every 2 or 3 years.

freegdr

Everythig spun well when belt was off ?