Symptoms
Wandering steering, a box that shifts on the frame when the wheel is turned, or cracks around the box mounting holes. RockCrawler.com reports a CJ-5 that tore its steering box off the frame on a trail.
The fix, step by step
- RockCrawler's install of a plate-steel bracket: remove the drag link, hoses and steering shaft, pull the box, fit the bracket's studs and spacers with thread-locker, trial-fit and file the bolt holes if needed.
- Bolt the mount to the box at 65 ft-lb, then to the frame with Grade 8 hardware at 55 ft-lb, adding the through-frame bolt for clamping force.
- Weld any frame cracks before fitting it.
- Route the hoses so they can't rub, and reconnect the shaft and tie rod.
Tools & part numbers
- Pitman arm puller
- sockets and torque wrench
- thread-locker
- file
- welder for frame cracks
- Rust Buster RB1008 (1976–86 CJ-5/7/8)
Where to buy the parts
Rust Buster RB1008 heavy-duty steering box mount, 1976–86 CJ-5/CJ-7/CJ-8Quadratec ↗Amazon ↗
Crown J5355446 upper steering box bracket, 1976–86 CJ-5/CJ-7/CJ-8Quadratec ↗Amazon ↗
Crown 83500369 steering box seal kit, 1974–86 CJ with power steeringQuadratec ↗Amazon ↗
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Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.