Loud pop from passenger side = loose steering?

3xX · 09-03-2009, 07:27 PM

This is a week after installing 3.5" IRO springs and getting an alignment. I was making a left turn in a parking lot waiting for a spot when I heard a loud pop which seemed to come from the front passenger side.

When driving home, I noticed the steering had noticeably increased in play as well as when making left crest turns required significant input to correct and make the jeep drive where I wanted it to go.

I have had the alignment checked out and the steering components checked out by two different shops after being unable to find out myself the problem, and everything checks out.

Any ideas, obvious or otherwise that you guys suggest I check or double check? The loose steering is really bothering me. I'm use to the usual crappy loose jeep steering, but after the popping sound, it's to the point where I'm almost hesitant to drive through the mountains because I feel it's unsafe.

tclaremont · 09-03-2009, 07:28 PM

Sounds like a ball joint, but I would think the shops would pick up on that real quick.

3xX · 09-03-2009, 08:06 PM

I have had worn CV joints which needed to be replaced for sometime now. Would worn CV joints cause a popping sound and cause the loose steering problem I'm experiencing?

98zjdave · 09-03-2009, 08:43 PM

My jeep pops everytime i make a hard left turn. Sounds like someone hitting the underside of my jeep with a hammer. Sounds like yours is doing the same thing, Ill let you know what I find out.

3xX · 09-03-2009, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 98zjdave

My jeep pops everytime i make a hard left turn. Sounds like someone hitting the underside of my jeep with a hammer. Sounds like yours is doing the same thing, Ill let you know what I find out.

I have only heard this loud pop once. It does not happen every time. Are you experiencing any steering issues?

**sadass** · 09-03-2009, 09:11 PM

I do not know about your lift kit, but if it is like the RC kit where you relocate the the attachment point for the front track bar . It is common for the lower bolt to losses where it attached to axle and Give the same symptom you described. Just make sure it is tight. first thought on My part was the steering box is messed, up. however, not the case, just cranked down on the bolt and problem solved.

**gregs887** · 09-03-2009, 09:42 PM

i was having a similar pop every so often, my cv shafts were fried. even if that isn't the problem, if yours are shot i would change them sooner rather than later

98zjdave · 09-04-2009, 04:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 3xX

I have only heard this loud pop once. It does not happen every time. Are you experiencing any steering issues?

There has always been a little play in the steering, but nothing has changed since the popping started. It just started recently when I let my buddy drive it for about 6 months. Got it back and it has popped ever since. It doesnt do it everytime I turn, only if I turn a corner sharp, or fast. Ill let you know if I find anything out. Mine started out popping maybe once a week btw, then it has steadily gotten more common to about once a day.