I have heard of this on the JK box but I have not had confirmation. I would like to know...Surely there are people out there that know of this!

 

There is an adjustment screw on the top of the JK steering box. However, it should be adjusted with the box in a vise, while taking torque-to-rotate readings.

 

Not sure I get all of this but is this doable in a home garage or the requirements are out of the weekend mecanic

 

The box needs to be secure and you should have a way to measure how much force, torque, it takes to turn the input shaft since you'll be increasing the preload by turning the screw.


People have just turned it and said "works great" but there isn't much in the way of how far they turned it, what the prior torque was, how long the box lasted after their adjustments, or if something completely different fixed their steering (e.g. low tire pressure, big mud tires, etc). Ronjenx has given solid advice (most likely) from the factory service manual but not many people follow solid advice.

 

I'm guessing it's similar to setting ring and pinion clearances. I'll be the guy to say it.

"Dont try this at home" " your asking for more problems if you don't really know what your doing.

Northridge 4x4

 

This is certainly doable in your garage. You will need the tech data, and a small inch/lb dial or beam torque wrench to measure those numbers.
Keep in mind, though, that adjusting the preload with the screw may not fix whatever it was that made it seem the screw needed adjusting.

 

I agree. I was just wondering if there is adjustment in the box. I am doing a suspension refresh this spring. I am replacing all arm bushings, putting in the teraflex tie rod, drag link, 2 HD track bars, axle seals, new Monroe shocks to refresh the ride, and replace my ball joints. Also getting the teraflex steering stabilizer, and all teraflex big brakes front and rear for towing our trailer.

Hopfully this will make my jeep "feel new" once again. With 180,000 on the clock, about 110,000 on my shocks and ball joints its time for a renew!

 

As described with torque specks, and the box in a vice would be the way to go. The box I adjusted it on before (early 90's GM), was already pretty well junked, and scheduled to be replaced. I had already replaced all other steering components, ball joints, wheel bearings, and suspension bushings, and still had about an inch and a half of play at the steering wheel. With the help of a friend I determined the play was in the steering box, and it really needed replacing.

While I waited for the budget to catch up so I could order a new box, I did a little experiment with adjusting the screw.

I would not have done this if I was planning on keeping the box long term.

As a short term solution, it worked. No problems during the 3 months I ran it that way until I got a replacement box to put in.

Sent from my iPhone using JK-Forum

 

When driving and taking a turn, sometimes, not every single time, I get about 1/4 to 1/2 of steering wheel turn and nothing happens. Does this sound like a steering box issue? I found this from advanced auto for a replacement, any other real options out there?

Cardone Remanufactured Power Steering Gear 27-8417: Advance Auto Parts