(6) Lubricate the wormshaft threads with chassis
lubricant. Rotate the shaft to move it in and out of
the ball nut and distribute the lubricant.
(7) Lubricate the wormshaft upper bearing with
chassis lubricant and install it on the wormshaft.
WORMSHAFT BEARING ADJUSTMENT CAP
DISASSEMBLY
(1) Pry out and remove the wormshaft lower bear-
ing retainer from the adjustment cap (Fig. 6).
(2) Remove the wormshaft lower bearing from the
adjustment cap.
CLEANING/INSPECTION
(1) Clean all the components in cleaning solvent
and dry with a clean cloth only.
(2) Inspect each component for wear and damage.
Replace as necessary.
WORMSHAFT BEARING ADJUSTMENT CAP
ASSEMBLY
(1) Remove the lower bearing cup Remover 7837
and Slide Hammer C-637 (Fig. 7). Install a new bear-
ing cup in the cap with a correct sized socket (Fig. 8).
(2) Lubricate the wormshaft lower bearing and
place it in the bearing cup.
(3) Install the lower bearing retainer on the ad-
justment cap. If necessary, tap the retainer lightly
with a plastic mallet to seat it.
GEAR CLEANING AND INSPECTION
(1) Clean the housing and the pitman shaft with
cleaning solvent and dry them with a clean cloth
and/or compressed air.(2) Inspect the housing for cracks, porosity, dam-
aged threads and scoring/distortion of the gasket sur-
face area. Repair or replace as necessary.
(3) Inspect the pitman shaft contact surface and
the teeth for wear, pitting, and other damage. Re-
place as necessary.
(4) Insert the pitman shaft in the steering gear
housing shaft bore and inspect for excessive shaft or
housing shaft bore wear. The shaft should have a
smooth, bind-free fit with no visible side play when
installed in the shaft bore.
Fig. 6 Wormshaft Lower Bearing Retainer Removal
Fig. 7 Bearing Cup Removal
X
Fig. 8 Bearing Cup Installation
19 - 42 STEERINGJ
(14) Remove the Interlock cable from the steering
column. Refer to Automatic Transmission Shifter/Ig-
nition Interlock in this group.
(15) Remove the column. Use care to avoid damag-
ing the paint or trim.
INSTALLATION
CAUTION: Bumping, jolting and hammering on the
steering column shaft and gear shift tube must be
avoided during all service procedures.
(1) With the front wheels in the straight ahead po-
sition. Align and install the column to coupler.Do
not apply force at the top of the steering col-
umn shaft.(2) Ensure the ground clip is on the left spacer slot
(Fig. 17).
(3) Install the Interlock cable from the steering col-
umn. Refer to Automatic Transmission Shifter/Igni-
tion Interlock in this group.
(4) Install wiring harness connections to steering
column (Fig. 16).Ensure the wiring is not pinched
and all connections are correctly locked in
place.
(5) Install wiring harness connector onto multi
function switch (Fig. 18). Torque multi function
switch wiring harness connector retaining bolt to 2
Nzm (17 in. lbs.).
(6) Install wiring harness connector for key light
switch connection, onto the ignition switch (Fig. 19).
Fig. 15 Multi Function Switch Wiring Connection
Fig. 16 Steering Column Wiring Harness
J9519-57
Fig. 14 Halo Light And Key In Buzzer Wiring
Connection
JSTEERING 19 - 53
(7) Install wiring harness connectors onto clock
spring and ignition switch assembly (Fig. 20).
(8) Install shaft coupler pinch bolt loose, load col-
umn up to panel bracket.(9) Be sure both spacers are fully seated in the col-
umn support bracket. Tighten the column panel
bracket support nuts to 12 Nzm (105 in. lbs.) torque.
(10) Tighten the coupler pinch bolt to 47 Nzm (35
ft. lbs.) torque.
(11) Install the upper and lower shrouds. Install
the tilt lever (if equipped).
(12) Install rely box.
(13) Install the knee blocker.
(14) Install the steering wheel, refer to Steering
Wheel Installation and observe cautions.
(15) Remove the column shaft shipping lock pin
(installed in service column).
(16) Arm airbag, refer to Arming/Disarming Airbag
in this section.
(17) Connect the battery ground (negative) cable.
COLUMN COMPONENT SERVICE
The Acustar columns have been designed to be ser-
viced as an assembly; less wiring, switches, shrouds,
steering wheel, etc. Also most steering column com-
ponents can be serviced without removing the col-
umn from the vehicle. For additional information on
electrical components refer to Group 8, Electrical.
IGNITION SWITCH SERVICE
TEST AND REPAIR
If the ignition switch effort seems to be excessive
due to binding. Follow the procedure outlined below
to determine the cause.
When service procedures are performed on the
Acustar steering column there are certain areas of
the column that can not be tampered with. If a prob-
lem related to these areas of the steering column are
detected. The entire steering column (less the remov-
able components) should be replaced see (Fig. 1 and
2).
Fig. 17 Ground Clip & Spacer Installation
Fig. 18 Multi Function Switch Wiring Harness
Connector Installed
Fig. 19 Wiring Harness Connection For Key Light
Switch
Fig. 20 Wiring Harness Connection To Clock Spring
And Ignition Switch
19 - 54 STEERINGJ
(1) Remove the ignition switch from the steering
column. Refer toGroup 8D Ignition System.
(2) Using a key cylinder, check the turning effort of
the switch.
²If the ignition switch binds look for the following
conditions.
(1) Look for rough areas or flash in the casting and
if found remove with a file (Fig. 2).
(2) Remove the link and slider.
(3) Check the link to see if it has been bent and if
so replace with a new part.
Put the slider in its slot in the sleeve and verify a
loose fit over the length of the slot. If the slider binds
in the slot at any point lightly file the slider until
clearance is achieved.
²If no binding is found.
Lightly file the ramp on the ignition switch, (The
ramp fits into the casting) until binding no longer oc-
curs.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTER/IGNITION
INTERLOCK MECHANISM
The automatic transmission Shifter/Ignition Inter-
lock, is a cable operated system. It interconnects the
automatic transmission floor mounted shifter to the
steering column ignition switch (Fig. 1). The system
locks the shifter into the PARK position. The Inter-
lock system is engaged whenever the ignition switch
is in the LOCK or ACCESSORY position. When the
key is in the OFF or RUN position the shifter is un-
locked and will move into any position. The interlock
system also prevents the ignition switch from being
turned to the LOCK or ACCESSORY position (Fig.
2). Unless the shifter is fully locked into the PARK
position.
INTERLOCK CABLE REPLACEMENT
REMOVAL
(1) Lower the steering column. Refer to Column
Assembly Replacement in this group.
Fig. 1 Steering Column Non-Serviceable
Components
Fig. 2 Steering Column Flash Removal And
Non-Serviceable Components
Fig. 3 Observe Cautions
Fig. 4 Observe Cautions
JSTEERING 19 - 55
(36) If equipped, install the cruise control wire har-
ness. Install the turn signal stalk by pushing it
straight into the column.
(37) Insert the hazard warning knob in the hazard
warning switch and press it inward. Align and install
the turn signal switch retaining screws. Ensure that
the turn signal switch is properly seated before tight-
ening the screws. Tighten the screws to 4 Nzm (33 in.
lbs.) torque. Thread the hazard warning switch knob
into the switch and pull the knob outward.
(38) Install and seat the upper bearing race in the
key/lock cylinder housing.
(39) Install the upper bearing preload spring, the
canceling cam and the lockplate.
(40) Install a replacement lockplate retaining snap
ring on the sleeve of the Lock Plate Compressor
C-4156. Install the tool on the steering shaft (Fig.
24).
(41) Compress the lockplate with the compressor
tool and position the retaining snap ring in the steer-
ing shaft groove.
(42) Remove the compressor tool. Ensure that the
retaining ring is completely seated in the groove be-
fore removing the tool.
(43) Position the wire harness protectors if
equipped, over the harnesses and snap in place on
steering column.
(44) Install the lockplate cover.
(45) Install the gear selector lever and the retain-
ing pin.
(46) Install the steering wheel. Refer to the instal-
lation procedure.
(47) Insert the ignition key in the key/lock cylin-
der; turn the cylinder to the OFF-UNLOCK position ;
move the ignition switch downward to eliminate any
switch-to-remote rod lash; and tighten the ignition
switch attaching screws to 4 Nzm (35 in. lbs.) torque.(48) Depress the dimmer switch slightly and insert
a 3/32-inch drill bit into the adjustment hole.
(49) Loosen the retaining screws and move the
dimmer switch toward the steering wheel. Tighten
the dimmer switch retaining screws to 4 Nzm (35 in.
lbs.) torque.
(50) Remove the drill bit and test operation by
moving the dimmer switch stalk. Test the dimmer
switch operation in the full-up, down and center
steering wheel positions.
(51) Install the steering column, if applicable. Re-
fer to the installation procedure.
Fig. 24 Lockplate Retaining Ring Installation
JSTEERING 19 - 73
happens when the container delivery mechanism is im-
properly calibrated. Always check the lubricant level af-
ter filling to avoid an under fill condition.
A correct lubricant level check can only be made
when the vehicle is level; use a drive-on hoist to en-
sure this. Also allow the lubricant to settle for a
minute or so before checking. These recommenda-
tions will ensure an accurate check and avoid an un-
der-or-overfill condition.
HARD SHIFTING
Hard shifting is usually caused by a low lubricant
level, improper or contaminated lubricants, compo-
nent damage, incorrect clutch adjustment, or by a
damaged clutch pressure plate or disc.
Substantial lubricant leaks can result in gear, shift
rail, synchro and bearing damage. If a leak goes un-
detected for an extended period, the first indications
of a problem are usually hard shifting and noise.
Incorrect or contaminated lubricants can also con-
tribute to hard shifting. The consequence of using
non-recommended lubricants is noise, excessive wear,
internal bind and hard shifting.
Improper clutch release is a frequent cause of hard
shifting. Incorrect adjustment or a worn, damaged
pressure plate or disc can cause incorrect release. If
the clutch problem is advanced, gear clash during
shifts can result.
Worn or damaged synchro rings can cause gear clash
when shifting into any forward gear. In some new or re-
built transmissions, new synchro rings may tend to
stick slightly causing hard or noisy shifts. In most
cases, this condition will decline as the rings wear-in.
TRANSMISSION NOISE
Most manual transmissions make some noise dur-
ing normal operation. Rotating gears generate a mild
whine that is audible but only at extreme speeds.
Severe, highly audible transmission noise is gener-
ally the result of a lubricant problem. Insufficient,
improper, or contaminated lubricant will promote
rapid wear of gears, synchros, shift rails, forks and
bearings. The overheating caused by a lubricant
problem, can also lead to gear breakage.
TRANSMISSION REMOVAL
(1) Shift transmission into first or third gear. Then
raise vehicle on hoist.
(2) Support engine with adjustable jack stand. Po-
sition wood block between jack and oil pan to avoid
damaging pan.
(3) Disconnect necessary exhaust system components.
(4) Remove skid plate.
(5) Disconnect rear cushion and bracket from
transmission (Fig. 5).
(6) Remove rear crossmember.
Fig. 5 Rear Mount Components (YJ Shown)
JAX 4/5 MANUAL TRANSMISSION 21 - 3
(21) Remove clutch release bearing, release fork
and retainer clip.
(22) Remove clutch housing from transmission.
TRANSMISSION INSTALLATION
(1) Install clutch housing on transmission. Tighten
housing bolts to 37 Nzm (27 ft. lbs.) torque.
(2) Lubricate contact surfaces of release fork pivot
ball stud and release fork with high temp grease.
Then install release bearing, fork and retainer clip.
(3) Mount transmission on transmission jack.
(4) Lightly lubricate pilot bearing and transmis-
sion input shaft splines with Mopar high temp
grease.
(5) Align transmission input shaft, release bearing,
and clutch disc splines. Then slide transmission into
place.
(6) Install and tighten clutch housing-to-engine
bolts to 38 Nzm (28 ft. lbs.) torque.Be sure the
housing is properly seated on engine block be-
fore tightening bolts.
(7) Lower transmission approximately 7-8 cm (3
in.) for access to shift tower. Be sure transmission is
in first or third gear.
(8) Reach up and around transmission and insert
shift lever in shift tower. Press lever retainer down-
ward and turn it clockwise to lock it in place. Then
install lever dust boot on shift tower.
(9) Install slave cylinder in clutch housing.
(10) Align and install transfer case on and trans-
mission. Tighten transfer case-to-transmission nuts
to 35 Nzm (26 ft. lbs.) torque.
(11) Connect transfer case vent hose and shift link-
age. Check and adjust linkage if necessary.
(12) Connect transfer case vent hose.
(13) Secure wire harnesses in clips/tie straps on
transmission and transfer case.
(14) Connect backup light switch wires.
(15) Connect vehicle speed sensor wires.
(16) Install and connect crankshaft position sensor.
(17) Install rear crossmember (Fig. 5). On XJ,
tighten crossmember-to-frame bolts to 41 Nzm (31 ft.
lbs.) torque. Then tighten transmission-to-rear sup-
port bolts/nuts to 45 Nzm (33 ft. lbs.) torque. On YJ,
tighten bolts/nuts to indicated torque (Fig. 5).
(18) Remove jack stand.
(19) Align and install front/rear propeller shafts.
Tighten shaft U-joint clamp bolts to 19 Nzm (170 in.
lbs.) torque.
(20) Install skid plate, if equipped. Tighten bolts to
42 Nzm (31 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten stud nuts to 17
Nzm (150 in. lbs.) torque.
(21) Top off transmission and transfer case lubri-
cant levels.
(22) Lower vehicle.
TRANSMISSION DISASSEMBLY AND OVERHAUL
ADAPTER HOUSING AND FRONT BEARING
RETAINER REMOVAL
(1) Drain transmission lubricant.
(2) Remove release bearing and lever.
(3) Remove clutch housing bolts and remove hous-
ing.
(4) On 2-wheel drive models, remove vehicle speed
sensor, speedometer adapter and speedometer driven
gear. Then remove extension housing seal (Fig. 1).
(5) Remove detent spring and ball. Remove detent
plug (Fig. 2) and remove detent spring and ball with
pencil magnet.
Fig. 1 Removing 2-Wheel Drive Extension Housing
Seal
Fig. 2 Detent Ball Plug Location
JAX 4/5 MANUAL TRANSMISSION 21 - 5
The first number is year of manufacture. The sec-
ond and third numbers indicate month of manufac-
ture. The next series of numbers is the transmission
serial number.
TRANSMISSION SHIFT PATTERN
The AX 15 shift pattern is shown in Figure 3. First
and second and third and fourth gear ranges are in
line for improved shifting. Fifth and reverse gear
ranges are also in line at the extreme right of the
pattern (Fig. 3).
The AX 15 is equipped with a reverse lockout
mechanism. The shift lever must be moved through
the Neutral detent before making a shift to reverse.
TRANSMISSION LUBRICANT
Recommended lubricant for AX 15 transmissions is
Mopar 75W-90, API Grade GL-5 gear lubricant, or
equivalent.
Correct lubricant level is from the bottom edge, to
no more than 6 mm (1/4 in.) below the bottom edge of
the fill plug hole.
Approximate dry fill lubricant capacity is:
²3.10 liters (3.27 qts.) in 4-wheel drive models
²3.15 liters (3.32 qts.) in 2-wheel drive models
TRANSMISSION SWITCH AND PLUG LOCATIONS
The fill plug is at the driver side of the gear case
(Fig. 4).
The drain plug and backup light switch are on the
passenger side of the gear case (Fig. 5).
TRANSMISSION GEAR RATIOS
AX 15 gear ratios are:
First gear - 3.83:1
Second gear - 2.33:1
Third gear - 1.44:1
Fourth gear - 1.00:1
Fifth gear - 0.79:1
Reverse - 4.22:1
SERVICE DIAGNOSIS
LOW LUBRICANT LEVEL
A low transmission lubricant level is generally the
result of a leak, inadequate lubricant fill, or an incor-
rect lubricant level check.
Leaks can occur at the mating surfaces of the gear
case, intermediate plate and adapter or extension
housing, or from the front/rear seals. A suspected
leak could also be the result of an overfill condition.
Leaks at the rear of the extension or adapter hous-
ing will be from the housing oil seals. Leaks at com-
ponent mating surfaces will usually be the result of
inadequate sealer, gaps in the sealer, incorrect bolt
tightening, or use of a non-recommended sealer.
A leak at the front of the transmission will be from
either the front bearing retainer or retainer seal. Lu-
bricant may be seen dripping from the clutch housing
after extended operation. If the leak is severe, it may
also contaminate the clutch disc causing slip, grab
and chatter.
Transmissions filled from air or electrically pow-
ered lubricant containers can be underfilled. This
Fig. 3 AX 15 Shift Pattern
Fig. 4 Fill Plug Location
Fig. 5 Drain Plug/Backup Light Switch Location
21 - 34 AX 15 MANUAL TRANSMISSIONJ