Steering problems on an unlifted JL?

[jam_at_msu]

I'm expecting my JL Sport to arrive any day. I've been reading tons of posts about steering wander and wobble - should I expect this on mine? If so, what should I do to prevent it?

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[Some Random Guy]

Don’t expect it, but also don’t be surprised. Fortunately, the issue is pervasive enough there are a ton of solutions to look at.
Are you handy enough you can re-torque the trackbar and potentially the balljoints? If not, and you have issues, the dealership might try this for you since it is just a touch of labor to potentially solve the issue.
Finally, is this your first Wrangler? Solid axle does feel different than IFS found on almost all other vehicles. There is an adjustment and sometimes you have to just hold the wheel straight to see if your Jeep is actually wandering or if your perception is off as the body moves about on the axles while it tracks straight.

 

[jam_at_msu]

Yes, I can re-torque those. Thanks for that tip.

And yes, this is my first Wrangler. I've had a couple of older Wagoneers, but no Wranglers. I'll spend some time just driving around getting used to the feel of the solid axle (I've heard this is a bit different).

Thanks again!

 

[jlgolfcart]

Yes, I can re-torque those. Thanks for that tip.

And yes, this is my first Wrangler. I've had a couple of older Wagoneers, but no Wranglers. I'll spend some time just driving around getting used to the feel of the solid axle (I've heard this is a bit different).
Put air pressure down to 32-36
Thanks again!

 

[Headbarcode]

I'm expecting my JL Sport to arrive any day. I've been reading tons of posts about steering wander and wobble - should I expect this on mine? If so, what should I do to prevent it?

Bring a tire pressure gage to lower the psi. They are over filled for transport from the factory and most dealers never lower them before delivery. Too high and it'll make the steering feel squirrely and harder to hold a straight line.

 

[Odyssey USA]

I wouldn’t expect it but most want to test drive the one they buy first. Cross your fingers but it seems there’s less recent complaints than there used to be.

 

[jam_at_msu]

Bring a tire pressure gage to lower the psi. ...

What's the appropriate pressure?

 

[jam_at_msu]

I wouldn’t expect it but most want to test drive the one they buy first. Cross your fingers but it seems there’s less recent complaints than there used to be.

This relieved lots of stress.

I really need for it to get here so that I'm spending less time reading horror stories and more time out getting to know my Jeep!

 

[jludave]

What's the appropriate pressure?

Check the sticker on the inside of the driver door.

 

[Headbarcode]

What's the appropriate pressure?

Dropping to 35psi is a good start, while not being too low to trip the tpms dash warning light.

 

[jam_at_msu]

Quick update: I picked up the new Jeep yesterday. Tires were set at 38 PSI. It runs and drives smooth with no really noticeable wandering/drifting at all. Love it.

I'll play a little with pressure and check the torque on all the driving bits over the next week, but am glad to report that (so far) this is not one of the horror-story jeeps.

Thanks everyone for the tips and advice!

 

[jludave]

I picked up the new Jeep yesterday.

When you have a chance, open the hood, remove the cover to the fuse box and press down on every fuse and relay to be sure they are firmly seated. The JL Wrangler is known to ship from the factory with loose fuses and relays, causing all types of weird electrical issues.

Congrats on the new ride!

 

[jam_at_msu]

When you have a chance, open the hood, remove the cover to the fuse box and press down on every fuse and relay to be sure they are firmly seated. The JL Wrangler is known to ship from the factory with loose fuses and relays, causing all types of weird electrical issues.

Congrats on the new ride!

Thanks, I'll do that after work today!!

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