Owners of 2007 – 2009 Jeep Wranglers (built before August 1, 2009) may complain about steering wheel/linkage vibration when driving over rough surfaces.
The fix may involve replacing the steering damper and steering damper bracket.
Remove the steering damper and the steering damper bracket. Verify that the tie rod assembly is centered at the boot.
Install the replacement damper bracket (P/N 68066693AA) by sliding the open end of the bracket over the flat spot (right side) of the tie rod assembly.
From the end of the tie rod tube, measure a distance of 19.75 inches (502.4mm) and place a locating mark on the tie rod tube.
Align the left edge of the damper bracket on the locating mark. The bracket bolt threads should be pointing forward, with the bolts parallel to the ground.
Torque the damper bracket nut to a value of 37 ft-lb. Install the steering damper-to-axle bracket and steering damper bracket with the dust shield of the steering damper at the tie rod steering damper bracket. Tighten the steering damper bolt in the axle bracket to 50 ft-lb. Tighten the steering damper nut on the tie rod steering damper bracket to 50 ft-lb.
Note: Place index marks (matchmarks) at the final location of the damper bracket and all torqued fasteners.
Once installation has been completed, turn the steering wheel full-right and then to full-left 3 times. Verify the damper bracket position. If needed, reposition and re-torque the fasteners.
PARTS REQUIRED
Damper bracket kit 68066693AA
Steering damper 52060058AF
Damper to tie rod damper bracket nut 06508590AA
Bolt 06104240AA