Loose Steering Wheel / Column

[Jeep_PDX]

Hello... new to the club :)

I have an 86 with the 2.5 FI.   A couple of months ago the steering wheel and column started loosening up around its center... it got worse with time.  Basically the wheel can be moved laterally and vertically in a "cone" type pattern. 

What works:

-tilt mechanism

-turn signals / wipers

-steering function (no rotational slop)

 

What's bad:

-high beam function only works by slightly tilting the wheel upwards

-ignition block feels sloppy and sometimes jams  (still I can get the truck started every time)

-laterally pushing the wheel (due to its slop) to the left will cause a break in electrical contact to the ignition   (probably the worst aspect of this problem)

 

Need to understand exactly what component needs replacing (column?) or if this one can be repaired. 

 

I have access to a shop and can tinker... but not sure what to start taking apart here.

 

Thanks!

 

Alex

[NHMJXJ]

Check this thread >>> http://comancheclub.com/topic/39512-steering-column-tilt-bolts/?hl=wiggity&do=findComment&comment=409046

[cruiser54]

Yep. Fix it using the link.

[Jeep_PDX]

Thanks!

  Looks like the ticket.   Much appreciated,

 

Alex

[AMCJeepMJ]

And remember if you're going to replace the entire column to take the bolt completely out [not just loose] where the steering shaft meets the steering box.

[Jeep_PDX]

and just to get an idea of how labor intensive this fix is...  Is a day enough to get this done?  I'm mechanically inclined but by no means an expert here...

[carnuck]

Yes, but the first time takes awhile. If you know the special tools in advance, it's easier. I did mine just a couple weeks ago.

 

Steering wheel puller

lockplate tool (to remove and re-install the snap ring)

Pin puller (unless you can cheat and just tighten the 2 that are visible. NOT the proper way)

e drive socket and 1/4 drive extension (I forget the size. E7?)

 

Follow the directions on the link above.

[Jeep_PDX]

Yes, but the first time takes awhile. If you know the special tools in advance, it's easier. I did mine just a couple weeks ago.

 

Steering wheel puller

lockplate tool (to remove and re-install the snap ring)

Pin puller (unless you can cheat and just tighten the 2 that are visible. NOT the proper way)

e drive socket and 1/4 drive extension (I forget the size. E7?)

The special tools is what I am going to try and buy before the job... question  is, will anyone at Autozone or Napa know what to get if I say "lockplate tool" or "Pin Puller"?  Does not seem like these are vehicle specific, but I hope that I can provide info to get what I need.

[carnuck]

lock plate tool http://www.summitracing.com/parts/wmr-w80649

 

pin tool http://www.summitracing.com/parts/oes-25135

 

http://www.harborfreight.com/19-piece-38-drive-e-socket-set-67992.html

[Jeep_PDX]

Awesome, thanks!... got everything except the Pin Puller... the one from Summit will ship next month.  Gotta figure out a way to get one by Saturday.

[carnuck]

It's available through Napa and auto parts stores here within 24 hours usually. Part numbers change but function doesn't.