ZJ steering problem..

Snow did pass the time by typing:

Well, the 93 ZJ with quadratrack doesn't come with a locking or limited slip front diff but it will act that way if the transfer case fluid is low or old. How's the fluid level in your transfer case? Should be up to the top fill bolt. Standard ATF fluid, same as the transmission.

Also check the CV boots for rips and the power steering fluid

Just a quick add-on,, while out checking a couple things quickly as darkness arrived I did notice the from diff cover was extremely hot and the rear diff cover was warm.

Thanks Doug, I'll check the t-case and let you know about the level, I did notice that the t-case looks wet but this might be due to some puddles earlier in the drive home from the in-laws. As for the cv-boots they're both fine (6 months old) and 2 garages looked at them in the past 2 weeks ( wheel alignment and hub change.. steering problem existed prior to this work, was hoping this work would get rid of the problem).

Has anyone checked the fluid in the front differential?

The front output shaft is operated by a drive chain that connects the shaft to a drive sprocket on the mainshaft. The drive sprocket is engaged/disengaged by the mode fork, which operates the mode sleeve and hub.

I'll send you some info.

last I checked (5-6 months ago) , the level was good.

Snow...

Do you have Selec-Trac or QuadraTrac ?

Quadra-Trac I believe.. shifter has 4 wheel full-time and 4 wheel low.

Snow...

Your complaint seems to be common. There seems to be an issue with the center differential....

Mike

86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail >

Well I found the front diff fluid was dark and stinky (like old burnt fluid) so I changed that today, next I'll be checking / changing the t-case fluid.. anyone know off hand what size the plugs are on the t-case? Other then being metric.

Snow...

Snow did pass the time by typing:

"BIG" 1 3/16 inch specialty socket from Strap-On ..er.. Snap-On. :] is what I use (probably metric but it fits well enough)

Changing fluid is semi-simple.

While your out buying two quarts of fluid get a 2ft piece of clear 1/4" id plastic hose. (instructions later)

1) put pan under the lower bolt, on top of a lot of paper or a larger tub if it's windy. 2) loosen both bolts and then remove the bottom one first, carefully so the atf doesn't blast all over you. :) By the way, if you take the top fill bolt out first it's just like shotgunning a beer.....mmmm..beer... 3) replace lower plug and wipe up the mess, wring out your t-shirt..etc.

now to get that fluid to run up-hill....

Now for that bit of clear hose. take the cap off and poke a hole in it slightly smaller than the hose. Your going to thread the hose through that hole and down into the bottle so you can squeeze the bottle and force the fluid up the hose. Save this doodad, it comes in handy and you can cap off the remaining fluid with a golf-T or bolt.

4) once fluid comes out the top hole, your done. put the plug back in and wipe up the mess. :) 1.6 quarts, Mopar ATF Plus/Type 7176/ Dexron II or compatible.

The plugs go to 35 ft.lbs

Ok have managed to change the t-case fluid as well, this was accomplished with only minor spillage and only required two rags to control the run off and overflow. Didn't have to change my clothes 1/2 way through the job (thanks to the warning). I have yet to actually take the beast on a drive to see if the fluid changes will make the tight steering problem go away, once I do I'll post the results. Thanks again for the info.

Snow...