Wagoneer L6-258 4.2L VIN C 2-bbl (1982)
Front Steering Knuckle: Testing and Inspection
EXCEPT WRANGLER
Ball stud preload is measured when vehicle exhibits high steering effort or slow return of the steering mechanism after turns. If this condition occurs
and all other items affecting steering effort are normal, ball stud preload should be checked.
1. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheels.
2. Disconnect steering damper at tie rod if equipped.
3. Unlock steering column. Disconnect steering connecting rod at right side of steering knuckle on CJ and Scrambler models; and on all other
models, at right side of tie rod.
4. Remove cotter pin and nut attaching tie rod to right side steering knuckle.
5. Rotate both steering knuckles completely several times, working from right side of vehicle.
6. Assemble a socket and 0-50 ft. lb. torque wrench onto right tie rod attaching nut. Torque wrench must be positioned parallel with the steering
knuckle arm on 1980 vehicles, or perpendicular to arm on 1981-87 vehicles.
7. Rotate steering knuckles slowly and steadily through a complete arc and measure torque required to rotate knuckles.
a. If reading is less than 25 ft. lbs., turning effort at knuckles is normal. Check other steering components for defects or binding.
b. If reading is greater than 25 ft. lbs., proceed to step 8.
8. Disconnect tie rod from both steering knuckles. Install a 1/2 x 1 inch bolt, flat washer and nut in tie rod mounting hole in each of the steering
knuckles.
9. Measure torque required to rotate each steering knuckle as described previously.
a. If torque is less than 10 ft. lbs., steering effort is within specifications.
b. If torque is more than 10 ft. lbs., perform "Ball Stud Preload, Adjust" procedure.
10. If both steering knuckles are within specification, check for damaged or tight tie rod ends.
