[Wheelin90YJ]

It appears as though my power steering system is hemorrhaging fluid and I cannot see where. It could be a leaking line, cracked reservoir, combination of the two, but because of all the fluid that has sprayed around I cannot see the source of the leak. The real issue is that I am 400 miles from home (and tools) and it is 20 degrees where I am (NH) so I need a quick fix. Is there a way to reroute the belt to bypass the PS pump so I can get home, or does anyone have any other ideas?? If I can get home I can take the time to figure it out and fix it right....comments, thoughts, suggestions??

Thanks.

[Stu Olson]

Unfortunately, I've never heard of anyone bypassing the pump for an emergency fix.

Looking at the normal belt routing diagram.....if you could find an idler pulley to put in place of the pump, that might do it.....but finding that is probably about like looking for a needle in a haystack. On top of that, you would need to fab a pulley bracket since the pump is the bracket for its pulley.

I don't see much in the way of making a temp fix.

[Wheelin90YJ]

Any one familiar with the Etna/Hanover NH area? Any reputable garages that I could trust to get me back on the road quickly and economically??

[Wheelin90YJ]

Situation is under control. Found a local garage to get me back on the road. Actually had to replace both the power steering pump and the water pump.

Heading home tomorrow. If you see a red TJ by the side of the road on the southbound side between NH and PA please stop and give me a push!!

Thanks for the help.

[mxracer9000]

My power steering pump exploded on me 2 days ago. The shaft and the pulley blew right off the power steering pump. I needed a way to bypass the power steering pump like you just so i could get around.



Hope you like my artwork haha.

The serpentine belt I used was 60 inches ( I THINK!! Idk how they measure the belts.) Obviously, the power steering was gone, so it was a pita to drive, but, it was able to drive and that's all i cared about.

Also, the belt isnt super tight, so sometimes it will slip alittle, but nonetheless, the alternator, crank, and water pump will turn in the correct direction.

I know you figured your situation out and luckily everything is a-ok. But since i spent 3 hours performing 'scientific' trial and error in bitter cold to figure this out, lol, i figured i should help out future JF'ers.

My serpentine belt runs around like the one in stu's pic. So my pic would only apply to those with this setup. Also, I have the 2.5L, idk if that makes a difference either.

[cubalz]

Thanks mxracer9000. I am going to print your diagram and keep it in my glove box if I ever have the same issue.

[JPN-KELL]

THis is Cool we have a stranded 97 TJ That help us get us going thanks racer