ZJ has lots of play in the steering

[Tudds]

My ZJ has driven like crap since I've got it. I've changed pretty much everything tie rod related over the course of 2 years. There's an inch or so in play in the steering wheel.

Anyone have an idea of what I can change to help fix this? I was going to change my control arms bushings so see if it helped the wander on the highway.

100% stock ZJ

Thanks in advance

[Ensiferum]

Adjust your steering box, the allen screw and lock nut is on the steering box itself. I did mine 1/8th of a turn and it helped.

Before that I had about 1-2" of play in the steering wheel before the wheels would move.

With the steering centered and holding the Allen screw, loosen the lock nut, tighten the Allen screw about 1/8th of a turn, holding the Allen screw in position, tighten down the lock nut. You may find that you have to make the adjustment 2 or 3 times to get the feel you want. Tightening the Allen screw too much will cause the steering gear to bind at centre, requiring that you back the screw off 1/8th turn. Check it out from stop to stop left and right: if it's over-tightened, it will bind up at the ends of the travel.
Don't tighten more than a quarter turn at a time without checking from stop to stop.

BTW,. this should be done with both front wheels off the ground.

[Tudds]

I tried doing that but could only fit a socket down there so the Allen key might have moved

[bronco94]

if it aint the box have a buddy rock the wheel back and forth (just a bit, not turning) then look under and see if any joints are moving. also look where the steering shaft goes to the box. you should see the play this way either in the linkage or box. ive seen track bars do that (along with steering boxes and tie rods lol) good luck