* Worn sector shaft bearings: These bearings allow the sector shaft (the part that connects to the steering linkage) to rotate smoothly. Wear in these bearings will result in slop or play in the steering.
* Worn sector shaft: The shaft itself might be worn, leading to play in the connection.
* Worn input shaft bearings: These bearings support the input shaft that's connected to the steering column. Wear here contributes to steering play.
* Worn worm gear and sector gear teeth: These are the main components of the gearbox. Significant wear here is a major problem.
What NOT to do: Don't try to tighten anything on the gearbox itself unless you are certain of what you are doing. Improper tightening can damage the gearbox further. There are no readily accessible external adjustment points designed for reducing play.
What you SHOULD do:
1. Professional Diagnosis: The best approach is to take your Jeep to a qualified mechanic specializing in older Jeeps or power steering systems. They can properly diagnose the source of the play and advise on the necessary repairs. This is the most reliable and safest way to handle the issue.
2. Inspection (if you're mechanically inclined): If you have experience working on vehicles, you could carefully inspect the steering linkage for any loose connections or worn components *before* looking at the gearbox itself. Tightening loose linkage components might help a *little*, but it's unlikely to solve the problem if the play is originating from the gearbox. However, you'll need special tools and knowledge to safely inspect and disassemble the gearbox.
3. Rebuilding or Replacement: In most cases, excessive play in the steering gearbox requires a rebuild or replacement. Rebuilding involves disassembling the unit, replacing worn bearings, seals, and potentially gears. Replacement is often a more cost-effective solution, especially if the gearbox is severely worn.
In short: Don't attempt to adjust the play yourself without proper expertise. The risks of damaging the gearbox outweigh any potential benefit of trying to make a minor adjustment. A professional diagnosis and repair are the recommended course of action.
