CJ7 steering to easy?

[CJDan]

My 1981 cj7 steering is very easy to turn, im just wondering if it is supposed to be lik that or is it not normal, i have a 2" shackle lift with a 2" body lift if that matters at all, my dad drove it home and he was hitting about 65 mph and he did have to work to keep the car straight, im not sure if i have loose steering and need to replace things or if its just normal.If its not normal do you guys have any where to start with replacing/fixing things?

 

[82CJ7JEEP]

In my 82 the steering is also loose, I need to replace the steering rod end, steering stabilizer and more than likely the ball joints. It could also be the steering box getting sloppy. I would recommend checking all components of the steering system for wear and damage, replace the bad parts and you should be fine.

 

[superj]

sometimes, if it hard to keep straight on he highway, you need to get an alignment. i forget which setting is off a bit to much that makes that happen though

 

[TLCJ5]

Shackle lifts change the caster angle...positive caster(where the top kingpin is slightly behind the bottom kingpin) will provide steering stability & help the wheels "self straighten" after a turn. If more positive caster is needed shims can be added between the axle & the springs to correct the angle. Your 81 CJ should have a 6degree positive caster angle.
Good luck & let us know what you find.

 

[Robert_Stephens]

I agree with these posts above. On VEX, I keep the ball joints, shims, and steering knuckles new and fresh. It runs straight and steers very very silky and easy. Even with its weight the way it is. But even the slightest wear of any of the components tends to allow the Jeep to wander, and not recover from turns as smooth and quick as it should. Part of the nature of the CJ I suppose. So, keep everything tight and greased.

Robert

 

[Gennybro]

dont forget to check tire pressure.