Steering???

Maverick26 · Dec 14, 2008

I have a 1980 CJ5 that I have replaced the all the TREs, the shaft from the firewall the the box and It still has a lot of play driving it on the road. Its really loose too. Kinda wondering what else is there to do?? It has 35s on it and It is sprung over. I also replaced the ball joints and the spindles and hub berrings. Any help and getting her to drive a bit tighter?

Not Jobless · Dec 14, 2008

Check the bolts holding the steering box to the frame.

You could also have slop in the shackles.

pokey · Dec 14, 2008

Jackazz said:
Check the bolts holding the steering box to the frame.

You could also have slop in the shackles.

Both of what Brad said and check the steering box mount for cracks and broken parts. Best thing to do is have someone else turn the wheel back and forth while you watch all the parts for movement.

Maverick26 · Dec 14, 2008

Well I just went thru all of that. I checked all the parts for cracks and I put all new Grade 8 bolts in the mounts and brace. I heard There could be slop in the box? Is there an adjustment in the box that can be done?

Pat · Dec 14, 2008

Probably needs a new steering box. I don't think you want to try adjusting it, it will mess up the alignment of the gears.

Maverick26 · Dec 14, 2008

What about a rebuild kit? Any luck with those? If not where is a good place to get a cheap complete box?

Pat · Dec 14, 2008

I've never tried rebuilding one. I'd go with NAPA for a new (reman) one, or try your luck with Pull-a-Part but its a gamble. New boxes are spendy but worth every penny when your rig drives like new again. :awesomework:

Maverick26 · Dec 14, 2008

Ok sounds good. Thanks for the help guys.

zukkev · Dec 14, 2008

I've got a Saginaw PSC gearbox, near new (only a couple runs) for $200--rig got parted out....

pokey · Dec 14, 2008

zukkev said:
I've got a Saginaw PSC gearbox, near new (only a couple runs) for $200--rig got parted out....

Thats a killer deal, My last rebuilt one from redtop was about that much. Oh and nice sig line asshat :kissmyass:

zukkev · Dec 14, 2008

pokey said:
Thats a killer deal, My last rebuilt one from redtop was about that much. Oh and nice sig line asshat :kissmyass:

You mean Redhead??? And I figured I'd get a response from you at some point....:kiss:

pokey · Dec 14, 2008

zukkev said:
You mean Redhead??? And I figured I'd get a response from you at some point....:kiss:

yea yea yea :kissmyass: Can I claim a senior moment :haha:

Maverick26 · Dec 15, 2008

Funny how yal just go off on your own little trail there. I know its a hell of a deal for 200 but im not sure I want to spend that money on it right now. Im trying to buy a house and every penny counts right now.

nevada · Dec 15, 2008

Maverick26 said:
Funny how yal just go off on your own little trail there. I know its a hell of a deal for 200 but im not sure I want to spend that money on it right now. Im trying to buy a house and every penny counts right now.

well..it really sounds like the gear box is bad/sloppy.
its up to you, to do what you need to, to remedy the problem.:awesomework:

pokey · Dec 15, 2008

Maverick26 said:
Funny how yal just go off on your own little trail there. I know its a hell of a deal for 200 but im not sure I want to spend that money on it right now. Im trying to buy a house and every penny counts right now.

yea yea thats why we took it elseware :awesomework: Anyway I have a decent stock type box for $50. if you like.

Maverick26 · Dec 16, 2008

So I ended up tightening up the adjuster screw on the top. Its 120% better then before but one of the mounting brackets seem to be cracked or loose. I ordered one of those replacment 3/8" thick brackets. Are they any good? should i put a brace in there too?

nevada · Dec 16, 2008

Maverick26 said:
So I ended up tightening up the adjuster screw on the top. Its 120% better then before but one of the mounting brackets seem to be cracked or loose. I ordered one of those replacment 3/8" thick brackets. Are they any good? should i put a brace in there too?

be careful adjusting that nut. it can cause the steering to not return to center. its not actually an adjustment. its more for setting the gear up. sorta like setting up a 3rd member.

if the box is sloppy..its b/c its wore out.