Today I was investigating why my TJ has more steering slop than I like. With my wife working the steering wheel and me underneath, I see movement in the right front lower ball joint. Either the ball joint or maybe the mounting bolt, unsure. See video and let me know your thoughts. Is it an easy fix? Is it dangerous? Heck, I’m uncertain what exactly the part is called. Ball or sloppy mount or?
Ball joint or loose bolt or? Is this dangerous? 2005 TJ
- Thread starter Ducati2
- Start date
Hard to tell if the ball/socket itself are shot because I think i see the stud moving as well. You'd better check that nut and try again to start. If that one is that worn you should have all the steering components, rod ends, drag link, trac bar, looked at by a competent shop or person.
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That's a tierod end. It's a ball joint, but not "the" ball joint.
That's not a stock tierod or drag link.
That's not a stock tierod or drag link.
Thats good. It may be an optical illusion when the toe rod shifted back and forth when the steering wheel was moved. Back to the issue, yeah its shot. Will It come apart? doubtful but there is no guarantee if its stressed enough. Dont know if you get DW but all those worn parts will surely contribute to if if/when it happens.
What is the least expensive way to fix this issue? This TJ has 208k miles and now only does maybe 100 miles a year off-road duty with maybe 200 miles per year on road. Ashim suggested replacing whole system with rockjock currectlync, but with installation, that will be $1k. Can’t do that. Suggestions?
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You can use the stock steering as long as the mounting points haven't been permanently modified or drilled out.
This thread is a great resource and has part numbers for you.
https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/zj-tie-rod-conversion.2373/
This is a very affordable option that anyone with basic tools and a tape measure can do.
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