A manual stearing question!!

CJ-ING-RJ · Jan 29, 2011

74 Manual steering!! Ok I have LOTS of steering problems... Very lose steering wheel, all over the road wandering, etc. etc.... I have done some searching on here and come up with some good knowledge. I am going to do a full tie rod and drag link replacement to start with. (see my Rusty's post to find out why)My steering shaft U joints are very lose. The lower shaft boot is torn, and seems to be oh at least an inch lose where it connects to the gear box. Also where the upper shaft goes through the fire wall there seems to be a sleeve I guess you could call it, well the upper shaft just bounces around in there. I guess what I'm asking for is does anyone know where I can get replacement parts from???? Quadratec can only help with a few parts. I'm hoping not to spend $300 on a full new steering shaft assembly. Also any list of parts or actual names would be cool. Here are a few pictures (taken from my phone)!!! Thanks for the help....R)

This is from a 05 thread from "jpflat2a Super Moderator". Just thought this was a good write up..... Thanks jpflat2a for the 2005 post haha.

jpflat2a said: ↑

here is what I would do
the steering linkage system on the 72-75 intermediates is actually quite strong and very dependable, but needs occasional maintenance; many Saginaw conversions into early Jeeps are based on this system.
as mentioned above, a visual check of all components while buddy/companion turns the wheel might be necc.
check while only slightly turning, checking to see where the play is; it may not show up turning the wheel lock to lock quickly; just wiggle the wheel.
The large u-joint between the upper and lower shaft needs periodic lubing; chasis lube is fine. If no play there, move to the bell coupler at the box; this coupler has 2 square bearings that fit onto the t end of the shaft inside; they move inside grooves inside the coupler as the body/frame/suspension flex; the coupler is splined and clamped to the stub shaft on the box; make sure it is tight; make sure there is no play inside the bell coupler; hold the coupler and try to turn the shaft; repair as necc.
Next, check the steering gear mounting bolts that hold the box to the frame; tighten if necc; check for cracks in the frame and box mounting area; have friend turn the wheel and check to see if the frame is flexing in this area; repair as necc.
There is an adjustment that can be made to the box thru an opening on top in the front pan/ cross member; loosen the nut, and slowly turn the adjustment screw, then re-tighten nut; this tightens up the sector shaft pins into the worm gear; NOTE: the worm gear will always be worn more in the middle; by tightening the adjustment, you run the risk of the gear binding at full lock to lock turns, which can be dangerous to you and others; if you have a factory service manual, this procedure is described in detail. Don't just turn the screw and go for a drive without checking this FIRST!
Next, check the tie rods and ends for play; grease them all.
You could also have just a plain worn out steering box, which might need new bushings and such; replacement is an option also.
If you do replace any and all steering shafts, please leave either the bell coupler or a rag joint in the system, as you must allow for flex/movement of the shaft. To not have either of those is asking for big problems in my opinion.
good hunting !
Click to expand...

jpflat2a · Jan 29, 2011

there is a plastic/nylon lower column bushing that supports the shaft.
you won't have much luck finding a new one.
I recall Advance Adapters had them or a member here made some up one time...maybe McRuff ?
I would replace the bell coupler at the steering gear with new components, they are readily available.
The large u-joint where the upper and lower shafts meet should be checked as well; if worn, replace it; can be pricey; most folks overlook the zerk lubrication fitting on it.

CJ-ING-RJ · Jan 29, 2011

Ya I never saw the lube fitting until a few days ago and well I'm to late. The U-joint is shot!!!! I'll look into Advanced adapters thanks.....

timgr · Jan 29, 2011

I posted about a steering gear rebuild in this thread. http://www.earlycj5.com/forums/showthread.php?p=910679#post910679

If your steering gear is sloppy, I suggest you just adjust the gear rather than rebuild it. You'll need to take the gear to the bench and adjust it with an inch-lb torque wrench. Page 33 here: http://oljeep.com/gw/76_tsm/Section11.pdf

sterlclan · Jan 29, 2011

those bins at the hardware store are a good place to start for the plastic thingy

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A manual stearing question!!

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A manual stearing question!!

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jpflat2a what's that noise?

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