The frame is constructed of high-strength channel
steel siderails and crossmembers. The crossmembers
join the siderails and retain them in alignment in re-
lation to each other. This provides resistance to
frame twists and strains.
FRAME STRAIGHTENING
When necessary, a conventional frame that is bent
or twisted can be straightened by application of heat.
The temperature must not exceed 566ÉC (1050ÉF).
The use of a specially designed heat crayon can de-
termine the desired temperature. Excessive heat will
decrease the strength of the metal and result in a
weakened frame.
Welding the joints around riveted cross members
and frame side rails is not recommended.
A straightening repair process should be limited to
frame members that are not severely damaged.
FRAME REPAIRS
DRILLING HOLES
Do not drill holes in frame side rail top and bottom
flanges, metal fatigue can result causing frame fail-
ure. Holes drilled in the side of the frame rail must
be at least 38 mm (1.5 in.) from the top and bottom
flanges.
Additional drill holes should be located away from
existing holes.
WELDING
Use MIG, TIG or arc welding equipment to repair
welded frame components.
Frame components that have been damaged should
be inspected for cracks before returning the vehicle
to use. If cracks are found in accessible frame com-
ponents perform the following procedures.
(1) Drill a hole at each end of the crack with a 3
mm (O.125 in.) diameter drill bit.
(2) Using a suitable die grinder with 3 inch cut off
wheel, V-groove the crack to allow 100% weld pene-
tration.
(3) Weld the crack.
(4) If necessary when a side rail is repaired, grind
the weld smooth and install a reinforcement channel
(Fig. 4) over the repaired area.
If a reinforcement channel is required, the
top and bottom flanges should be 0.250 inches
narrower than the side rail flanges. Weld only
in the areas indicated (Fig. 4).
FRAME FASTENERS
Bolts, nuts and rivets can be used to repair frames
or to install a reinforcement section on the frame.
Bolts can be used in place of rivets. When replacing
rivets with bolts, install the next larger size diameter
bolt to assure proper fit. If necessary, drill the hole
out just enough to receive the bolt.Conical-type washers are preferred over the split-
ring type lock washers. Normally, grade-5 bolts are
adequate for frame repair.Grade-3 bolts or softer
should not be used.Tightening bolts/nuts with the
correct torque, refer to the Introduction Group at the
front of this manual for tightening information.
FRAME DIMENSIONS
Frame dimensions are listed in millimeter scale.
All dimensions are from center to center of Principal
Locating Point (PLP), or from center to center of PLP
and fastener location (Fig. 5).
TOW HOOKS
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the two bolts that attach the tow hook
to the bumper rail and to the frame rail.
(2) Remove the tow hook.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the tow hook on the bumper rail and
frame rail.
(2) Install the attaching bolts. Tighten the bolts to
102 Nzm (75 ft. lbs.) torque.
GENERATOR SPLASH SHIELD
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the shield retaining nut and washer
(Fig. 6) from the engine oil pan stud (2.5L engines
only).
(2) Pry the serrated retainers from the frame rail
holes at each side of the vehicle.
(3) Pry the serrated retainers from the fan shroud
holes (Fig. 6).
(4) Remove the shield from the vehicle.
Fig. 4 Frame Reinforcement
JYJÐFRAME 13 - 13
Fig. 5 Frame Alignment DimensionsÐYJ Vehicles
13 - 14 YJÐFRAMEJ
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the generator splash shield at the fan
shroud and frame rails.
(2) Force the serrated retainers into the fan shroud
holes.
(3) Force the serrated retainers into the frame rail
holes at each side of the vehicle.
TRANSFER CASE SKID PLATE
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the transmission.
(2) Remove the nuts that attach the transmission sup-
port cushion and torque bracket to the skid plate (Fig. 7).
(3) Separate the transmission support cushion
from the skid plate.(4) Remove the nuts and bolts that attach the skid
plate to the frame.
(5) Remove the skid plate from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the skid plate at the frame and trans-
mission support cushion.
(2) Attach the skid plate to the frame.
(3) Install the nuts that attach the transmission
support cushion and torque bracket to the skid plate.
Tighten the nuts to 56 Nzm (41 ft. lbs.) torque.
(4) Remove the support and lower the transmission.
FUEL TANK SKID PLATE
REMOVAL
(1) Position a support under the fuel tank skid plate.
(2) Remove the nuts that attach the skid plate to
the straps and to the crossmembers (Fig. 8).
(3) Separate the fuel tank strap from the skid
plate.
(4) Support the fuel tank and remove the skid
plate and the pad from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Attach the skid plate to the fuel tank strap.
(2) Position and support the pad and skid plate un-
der the fuel tank.
(3) Install the nuts to attach the skid plate to the
straps and to the frame crossmembers. Tighten the
fuel tank strap nuts to 5 Nzm (40 in. lbs.) torque.
Tighten the skid plate-to-crossmember nuts with 16
Nzm (138 in. lbs.) torque.
(4) Remove the support from under the skid plate.
Fig. 6 Generator Splash Shield
Fig. 7 Transfer Case Skid Plate
Fig. 8 Fuel Tank Skid Plate
JYJÐFRAME 13 - 15
BUMPERS
INDEX
page page
Frame Crossmember Cover................. 16
Front Bumper............................ 16Rear Bumper............................ 16
Service Information........................ 16
SERVICE INFORMATION
In some cases, components in the following proce-
dures either support, or are hidden by other compo-
nents.
FRONT BUMPER
The YJ front bumper is a one-piece rail (Fig. 1). A
front crossmember cover (Fig. 1) is also installed on
all YJ vehicles.
BUMPER REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and remove the fog lamps, if
equipped.
(2) Remove the nuts and bolts that retain the
bumper extensions to the bumper rail and remove
the extensions.
(3) Remove the nuts and bolts that attach the
bumper rail/tow hooks to the frame rails.
(4) Separate the bumper rail from the frame rails.
BUMPER INSTALLATION
(1) Position the front bumper on the frame rails.(2) Install the bolts and attach the front bumper
rail (and tow hooks, if equipped) to the frame rails.
(3) Tighten the bolts to 102 Nzm (75 ft. lbs.) torque.
(4) Position the bumper extensions on the bumper
rail and install the retaining bolts.
(5) Tighten the bolts to 104 Nzm (77 ft. lbs.) torque.
(6) Install the fog lamps, if equipped.
FRAME CROSSMEMBER COVER
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the screws that attach the crossmem-
ber cover and support to the frame rails.
(2) Remove the crossmember cover and support
from the frame rails.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the support and crossmember cover on
the frame rails.
(2) Install the attaching screws.
(3) Tighten the screws to 8 Nzm (72 in. lbs.) torque.
REAR BUMPER
When equipped with a spare tire carrier attached
to the tailgate, a rear bumperette is attached to the
frame (Fig. 2 and 3).
Fig. 2 Rear Bumperette
Fig. 1 Front Bumper Rail, Crossmember Cover &
Tow Hooks
13 - 16 YJÐBUMPERSJ
BUMPERETTE AND DRAW BAR REMOVAL
(1) Remove the bumperette and draw bar retaining
nuts, bolts and washers from the frame rear cross-
member (Fig. 2 and 3).(2) Remove the bumperettes, spacers, brackets and
draw bar from the rear crossmember.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the spacers, brackets, draw bar and
bumperettes on the rear crossmember.
(2) Install the retaining nuts, bolts and washers in
the frame rear crossmember. Tighten the retaining
nuts and bolts with 3 Nzm (30 in. lbs.) torque.
Fig. 3 Rear Bumperette & Draw Bar
JYJÐBUMPERS 13 - 17
codes are not displayed, the problem may be mechan-
ical rather than electronic.
FUEL FILTER
The fuel filter protects the fuel injectors and fuel
pressure regulator from dirt, water and other foreign
matter. The filter is located under the vehicle along
the frame rail (Figs. 13 or 14). Replace fuel filter at
intervals specified in the Lubrication and Mainte-
nance Schedule chart found in Group 0, Lubrication
and Maintenance.
REMOVAL
WARNING: THE FUEL SYSTEM IS UNDER CON-
STANT FUEL PRESSURE (EVEN WITH THE ENGINE
OFF) OF APPROXIMATELY 131-269 KPA (19-39 PSI).
THIS PRESSURE MUST BE RELEASED BEFORE
SERVICING THE FUEL FILTER.
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove fuel
filler cap.
WARNING: FUEL PRESSURE MUST BE RELEASED
BEFORE DISCONNECTING ANY FUEL SYSTEM
COMPONENT.
(2) Release fuel system pressure. Refer to Fuel
Pressure Release Procedure in this group.
(3) Raise and support vehicle.
(4) On YJ models remove the fuel filter shield (Fig.
13).
(5) Remove hoses and clamps from inlet and outlet
sides of filter (Figs. 13 or 14). For procedures, refer to
Fuel Tubes/Lines/Hoses and Clamps. Also refer to
Quick-Connect Fittings. These can be found in the
Fuel Delivery System section of this group.
(6) Remove retaining strap bolt.
(7) Remove filter from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
CAUTION: The ends of the fuel filter are marked for
correct installation. Install filter with the end marked
IN towards fuel tank and the end marked OUT to-
wards engine.
(1) Place fuel filter in retaining strap with the
marked ends in the correct position.
(2) Install retaining strap bolt and tighten to 12
Nzm (106 in. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install inlet and outlet hoses and hose clamps.
For procedures, refer to Fuel Tubes/Lines/Hoses and
Clamps. Also refer to Quick-Connect Fittings. These
can be found in the Fuel Delivery System section of
this group.
(4) On YJ models, install fuel filter shield (Fig. 13).
(5) Lower vehicle.
(6) Connect negative battery cable.
(7) Start engine and check for leaks.
FUEL TUBES/LINES/HOSES AND CLAMPS
Also refer to the proceeding section on Quick-Con-
nect Fittings.
Fig. 13 Fuel Filter and ShieldÐYJ Models
Fig. 14 Fuel FilterÐXJ Models
JFUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM 14 - 9
STEERING
CONTENTS
page page
GENERAL INFORMATION.................. 1
GENERAL INFORMATION................. 48
MANUAL STEERING GEAR................ 37
POWER STEERING PUMP................. 11
POWER STEERING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS...... 3
RECIRCULATING BALL POWER STEERING
GEAR............................... 21STEERING COLUMN GENERAL SERVICEÐXJ . 47
STEERING COLUMNÐYJ................. 58
STEERING LINKAGEÐXJ................. 16
STEERING LINKAGEÐYJ................. 19
STEERING RHD......................... 74
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS................ 78
GENERAL INFORMATION
STEERING SYSTEM COMPONENTS
Jeep vehicles can have either a manual or power
steering system (Fig. 1). A recirculating-ball type
steering gear is used for both systems.
Power steering systems use;
²Steering gear
²Pressure and return fluid hoses and fittings
²Belt driven steering pump
²Integral or remote body mounted pump reservoir
POWER STEERING GEAR
The steering gear is mounted on the left frame rail.
The gear is joined to the intermediate shaft by a uni-
versal joint coupling. The coupling helps isolate noise
and road shock from the interior.
The major internal components of the gear are the:
²Rotary valve assembly
²Steering worm shaft
²Rack piston assembly
²Pitman shaftThe movement of these parts, while turning or
parking, is aided by hydraulic pressure and flow sup-
plied by the pump. Manual steering is always avail-
able at times when the engine is not running or in
the event of pump or belt failure. Steering effort is
higher under such conditions.
The steering stub shaft, rotary valve, worm shaft,
and rack piston assembly are all in line. The oil pas-
sages are internal within the gear housing except for
pressure and return hoses between the gear and
pump.
The power steering gear has a recirculating ball
system. This acts as a rolling thread between the
worm shaft and rack piston. The worm shaft is sup-
ported by a thrust bearing at the lower end and a
bearing assembly at the upper end. When the worm
shaft is turned right, the rack piston moves up in
gear. Turning the worm shaft left moves the rack pis-
ton down in gear. The rack piston teeth mesh with
the sector, which is part of the pitman shaft. Turning
the worm shaft turns the pitman shaft, which turns
the wheels through the steering linkage.
The control valve in the steering gear directs the
power steering fluid to either side of the rack piston.
The rack piston is assisted by hydraulic pressure. If
the steering system loses hydraulic pressure, the ve-
hicle can be controlled manually, but with higher
steering effort.
An identification code located on the side cover des-
ignates the gear ratio (Fig. 2).
²Code BH designates 14:1 ratio used in XJ vehicles
²Code BF designates 13-16:1 ratio used in YJ vehi-
cles
A recirculating-ball steering gear is used with the
power (assisted) steering system (Fig. 1). The power
steering gear can be adjusted and internally serviced.
Fig. 1 Steering Gears
JSTEERING 19 - 1
PITMAN SHAFT SEALSÐIN CAR REPLACEMENT
REMOVAL
(1) Remove pitman arm from gear. Refer to Pitman
Arm Removal in Steering Linkage.
(2) Clean exposed end of pitman shaft and hous-
ing. Use a wire brush to clean the shaft splines.
(3) Remove retaining ring with snap ring pliers
(Fig. 2).
CAUTION: Use care not to score the housing bore
when prying out seals and washers.
(4) Remove backup washer and double lip seal
with screwdriver.
²Start the engine and turn the steering wheel fully
to the LEFT to force out the seals and washers.
²Stop the engine
(5) Remove backup washer and single lip seal with
screwdriver.
(6) Inspect the housing for burrs and remove if
necessary. Inspect the pitman shaft seal surface for
roughness and pitting. If pitted replace shaft.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install single lip seal with Installer or a suit-
able size deep socket (Fig. 3).
(2) Coat the double lip seal and washer with
grease.
(3) Install the backup washer.
(4) Install the double lip seal.
(5) Install the backup washer.
(6) Install the retainer ring with snap ring pliers.
(7) Center the steering gear.
(8) Install the pitman arm. Refer to Pitman Arm
Installation in Steering Linkage.(9) Add power steering fluid. Refer to Power Steer-
ing Initial Operation.
INTERMEDIATEÐCOUPLING SHAFT
REMOVAL
(1) Place the front wheels in the straight ahead po-
sition.
(2) Remove the shaft pinch bolt at the steering
gear and column (Fig. 4, 5). Unbolt steering gear
from frame rail to remove shaft. Refer to Steering
Gear Replacement in this section.
INSTALLATION
(1) Align the intermediate (coupler) shaft to the
steering gear and column.
(2) Position the steering gear on the frame. Refer
to Steering Gear Replacement in this section.
(3) Install and tighten the pinch bolts to 34 Nzm
(25 ft. lbs.) torque.
STEERING GEAR REPLACEMENT
REMOVAL
(1) Place the front wheels in the straight ahead po-
sition with the steering wheel centered.
(2) Disconnect and cap the fluid hoses from steer-
ing gear. Refer to Pressure and Return Hose Replace-
ment in this Group.
(3) Remove the column coupler shaft from the gear.
Refer to the removal procedures in this section.
(4) Remove pitman arm from gear. Refer to Pitman
Arm Removal in the Steering Linkage section.
Fig. 2 Pitman Shaft Seals
Fig. 3 Pitman Shaft Seal Installation
JSTEERING 19 - 23