Author Topic: TJ steering linkage  (Read 6326 times)

DeadheadTJ

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TJ steering linkage
« on: May 15, 2010, 11:17:16 am »
I'm looking at my steering linkage on my TJ, and I'm wondering how "flat" or straight the actual tubes are on a TJ. I never really took notice as to whether they are supposed to be totally straight or if there are engineered bends in the linkage. As it stands now, there is a kink in the drag link at the coupler. So much so that it's now contacting the track bar and the right-side tie rod end brushes over the track bar mount. Knowing that I slipped into a rather gnarly rut while 'wheeling on a friend's property might have something to do with this situation, so I am now trying to figure out what I need to replace. The ultimate solution would be an upgrade.
'99 TJ Sport (Trail Rig, Weekend Toy)
'10 F150 XLT 4x4  (Daily Driver, Tow Rig)
'04 Jeep Grand Cherokee (the Better Half's!)
Martin "DeadheadTJ" Rohrbach

Rick_Bear

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Re: TJ steering linkage
« Reply #1 on: May 16, 2010, 06:16:21 am »
Yes, you are correct that the one tie rod does have engineered bends in it.
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DeadheadTJ

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Re: TJ steering linkage
« Reply #2 on: May 16, 2010, 07:53:42 pm »
It's an ever-so-slight bend, and I'm finding that out as I delve deeper into the 'net. After a couple days of searching, I finally found some pics that showed the true geometry of the steering linkage. And I can fully deduce that my drag link is f***ed-up beyond all repair...in other words, a FUBAR.
'99 TJ Sport (Trail Rig, Weekend Toy)
'10 F150 XLT 4x4  (Daily Driver, Tow Rig)
'04 Jeep Grand Cherokee (the Better Half's!)
Martin "DeadheadTJ" Rohrbach

DeadheadTJ

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Re: TJ steering linkage
« Reply #3 on: May 21, 2010, 08:00:34 pm »
Thanks for the input Rick...the old linkage was shot to hell. I added some unengineered bends that kelled the geometry of the linkage. Got a new set-up and everything is back in order. There are even more bends in the new HD linkage, but they're SUPPOSED to be there. Thanks again.
'99 TJ Sport (Trail Rig, Weekend Toy)
'10 F150 XLT 4x4  (Daily Driver, Tow Rig)
'04 Jeep Grand Cherokee (the Better Half's!)
Martin "DeadheadTJ" Rohrbach