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1975 Jeep Cj5 Steering

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by Noeli, May 8, 2017.

  1. May 8, 2017
    Noeli

    Noeli New Member

    South Carolina
    Joined:
    May 7, 2017
    Messages:
    1
    We have a 1975 CJ5 that we are four down towing. Steering gear box was replaced but even after it still has loose driving. Both left to right and there is way too much play. Moving to a power steering...would that allow for more control when steering? If so, what are approx. costs associated with changing over?
    One other curve ball is that the Jeep is lifted and has Mickey Thompson 33.5" wide tires. Still think tires should not be making this much of a difference in the play in the steering. Mechanic said ball joints aand all front end suspension is all good. Any ideas would be very much appreciated!
     
  2. May 8, 2017
    Focker

    Focker That's a terrible idea...What time? Staff Member

    WA
    Joined:
    Aug 18, 2014
    Messages:
    7,540
    Moved to proper forum.
     
  3. May 8, 2017
    73 cj5

    73 cj5 Not ready for the junkyard yet

    Clinton, Mississippi
    Joined:
    Jan 10, 2014
    Messages:
    2,137
    How is your steering shaft?
    Incorrect steering geometry or worn parts won't be solved by PS.

    Edit: Welcome from Mississippi. An introduction and specs on your JEEP would be of help in diagnosing your steering issue(s).
     
    Last edited: May 8, 2017
  4. May 8, 2017
    rusty

    rusty Well-Known Member

    norfolk,va
    Joined:
    Dec 16, 2006
    Messages:
    1,652
    Was the replacement box new ? It may need to be adjusted . You can do a search on how to adjust it. If going to power steering, ebay. I don't think I spent any more than 250.00 to change mine out.Hardest part was finding a 2 groove water pump pulley. My steering came out of a late 70s or early 80s Jeep cj.
     
  5. May 9, 2017
    fesser

    fesser Napa, CA 2024 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    Napa, CA
    Joined:
    Oct 16, 2014
    Messages:
    542
    You may be fighting more than one problem. Many low cost lifts don't take into account that you are rotating the front axle and changing steering geometry (caster I think). Shims can be used to bring the angle back where it needs to be. Many larger tires can create problems when installed on too narrow of a rim causing crowning and frequently a wandering feel when driving. As for worn parts in the steering, one easy way to check is to have someone slowly turn the steering wheel side to side while you look at every steering component you can see to see what moves, or takes up slack before the next component moves. On really worn systems it is sometimes amazing to see steering parts moving quite a bit without moving the next part in line. I was once surprised to see a steering box on a Chevy truck move away from the frame (cracked) like it was on a hinge. Probably was only a few turns of the wheel from a complete catastrophe.
     
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