Jeep Cherokee: How to Replace the Steering Box (+Durango Box Misinformation) [‘84-’01 XJ]

[@WAEMIDIV]

UPDATE: REDHEAD BOX DIED. I installed it pretty much exactly 3 months before its internals completely failed. It just suddenly happened with no warning, and now it has more slack than the original box I removed. The Jeep pulls really hard to either side and is pretty difficult to keep straight. I don't do any offroading, it's a stock truck on stock wheels and I do stock things, and one day the Redhead box just decided to fail. Very disappointing. I had only heard good things about them, but doing a little more digging I found a frighteningly large number of people have redhead boxes that fail in 3 - 6 months, for no reason whatsoever. I wish I would've known that BEFORE I put the damn thing in my Jeep. So it does have a warranty and I have replaced it, but still I'm very disappointed that a $370 brand new part failed easier than a $45 junkyard part. So I called and described the issue: The box has obvious play in the center, doesn't return to center and wanders/ pulls terribly to either side, which are the exact same symptoms I had with all previous boxes. These problems immediately went away upon installing the brand new Redhead box, and EVERYTHING else in the ENTIRE steering system is new and has no play. Redhead told me that I was wrong; "there is no way it's the box - it has to be something else" which I am sick of hearing from everyone, everywhere. I know it's the box. I can see, feel and otherwise observe that twisting the intermediate shaft results in no movement in the pitman arm, and I don't understand why or how that could possibly be caused by "a bad ball joint" as they claim. So after having a mechanic both align the vehicle and confirm the box is bad, I called them AGAIN and they finally conceded. They sent a new box with a $150 core charge to be refunded upon receiving their old box that died. I installed their warranty box and the steering went right back to being tight and predictable (unlike my ex) and it now returns to center and the wheel is lighter/ easier to turn. That right there confirms 100% that the Redhead box was the culprit. Interestingly, the steering wheel is off to one side again though. I don't know why that would happen by putting in an identical box, but it might have something to do with the internals of the old one being all screwed up. So I'll need to align the steering wheel but other than that, I hope this replacement doesn't explode in 3 months from now: 3/4/22

[@genpepper3]

Sorry man you went through that. I am in the same boat. From what I have heard redhead was bought out. Bluetop or maybe PCS?

[@WAEMIDIV]

@@genpepper3 I'm gonna call them again and have them replace it under warranty but if the second one fails then I think I'll try Bluetop. It'll be a while though because I have many other projects on standby at the moment

[@WAEMIDIV]

The box has been replaced and I have edited the above pinned comment for future reference. 3/4/22

[@JohnSmith-tj5se]

my friends redhead box started leaking not even a year after he put it in, they seem to be your typical rebuilt steering box, just painted red and hyped up

[@383_mtb7]

@@JohnSmith-tj5se lol. I paid $570 for a box and the first start it began leaking out of the input seal. Didn’t even roll the jeep outta the garage. Absolutely pissed

[@cvavurus]

This god tier vid will not steer you wrong in October 2024. Thank you sir 🖖

[@cvavurus]

lol "not steer you wrong" pun intended

[@LouieGiNYC]

Even when I'm not doing a project I still watch you. These videos are truly better than what Chrysler mechanics got when the cars first hit the dealerships. Bless you my friend

[@itchy7727]

Hands down the best jeep fix video ive seen.... Precise. Stable camera. Steps are clear. Cheers Young Man! Winner winner ! Chicken dinner!

[@supercharged00gtp]

I just did a ton of research and ended up ordering a blue top gear. Replacing my pump, lines, and gear. Came back to your video for reference. I hope the replacement redhead sent is more durable.

[@WAEMIDIV]

Yep I just got it installed a few days ago. If it does fail, I'm gonna slam Redhead so hard they won't know what hit 'em. I am fed up with replacing this damn steering box and if I have to do it again "this whole class is gonna feel. my. wrath."

[@bgrey55]

Hey thanks for the great vids, replaced my intake manifold because of you and your great instructions. Best of wishes, hope your doing great in life.

[@seanstackz3683]

Great video dude, loved the ending too. Appreciate your work brother 🤙

[@j.l.rhodes751]

Fantastic videos. I don't need a new box but I enjoy your presentations. Great job.

[@richardmelton1187]

I was lucky to find a dude that does nothing but rebuild on Durango boxes and he makes them for heavy duty service. Where in the past I had replaced two boxes doing what I thought was to upgraded versions which wasn't the case. This last box I purchased and installed had a 3.5 inch piston which I believe was designed for a snowplow application. I wasn't aware you could even get one that big,simple bolt in just st like the stock ones from before. I run 35's on my everyday driver which also doubles as my weekend trail rig! Getting ready to add hydraulic assist since I installed my front Ox e-locker for added ease of turning on the trail when locker is engaged

[@richardmelton1187]

I would like to know more about adding the WJ steering pump,the benefits if any and if it's worth the cost of doing it? My rig is an 01 Cherokee

[@WAEMIDIV]

@@richardmelton1187 I've had the WJ Steering box in my video ideas queue for some time now. As far as I can tell it does very much help with steering, makes it lighter etc. but it also noticeably drains engine power around turns, and that's something I personally don't want. I'd rather flex the old arm muscles than bog down the engine with steering assist, but that's just me, and a stock vehicle. The WJ pump needs to be from a 01-04 WJ and will fit in 96-01XJs with modification. There are some videos out there already with questionable integrity you could check out

[@caseybrown5055]

Thank you for being honest before I watched the entire video

[@PlumdogMilli0naire]

Your editing and jokes are getting more refined. Great content and info on the Durango “upgrade”

[@WAEMIDIV]

Thank you so much!! I try! I hope things only get better from here on out

[@PlumdogMilli0naire]

@@WAEMIDIV your effort shows in the quality! Love your XJ/MJ series. Keep it up man 🤙🏼

[@jesusquintanilla8625]

Excellent video, from Hermosillo Sonora, México 👍👍

[@WAEMIDIV]

International support! Thank you!

[@HobbesVids]

Man, been enjoying your videos for a while now, they’re really helpful for me since I’m still fixing my MJ, and I’ve gotten a few good tips out of them, hopefully we can see you more in the future, and whichever state you end up in i wish you the best of luck, cheers!

[@WAEMIDIV]

I'm glad I could help in more ways than one! What year is your MJ?

[@laszlovandor4770]

Best mechanic video I've ever seen ! Thanks !

[@gryffydd42]

I did see someone recommending swapping in the power steering pump from a WJ. There’s one line that needs adapting but is bolt on fit. It also has cooling fan of its own. Not sure I need this as I’m mostly daily driver, but it might make difference for people running bigger tires and lift

[@elev8j10]

Good video on the steering box. That's my next project. I made the mistake of "upgrading" my power steering pump and after one of the pumps I had in overheated my steering box started leaking. I flushed the system but it's only a matter of time before it needs to be done. Won't be putting in an "upgraded" steering box that's for sure. I have that iron man offroad brace as well. Think I will be getting adjustable control arms from that guy.

[@boldgold3885]

I used the Dodge Dakota pick up truck 4 x 4 steering box worked out great steering is awesome. Best to get one for a 4 x 4.

[@jamesski1713]

Great video, very helpful. I have a broken bracket and going to replace the steering box with the redhead . Thank you!

[@tribalskyes4838]

WOW! Great Vid. And thank God your engine light is ON. I was worried for awhile that it might be OFF but you're fine now that you engine light is ON!!! LOL

[@BillehBobJoe]

i bout choked on my drink watching you shake the steering wheel in rythym with katy perry

[@MrZeissOne]

Nice job! Good narration, as well as useful insight into the psychic life of ps line retainer nuts. Great to hear that your new box seems to be an improvement over your ex!

[@paulkaufman4901]

Nicely Done! Thanks for the information on the Durango box. I did that swap and now I need to replace the box again. Thanks for the follow up on the Redhead rebuilt box. I've pretty much decided that buying rebuilt boxes is a waste of time and money. Either rebuild them yourself or buy New. Could we get another follow up on the Redhead replacement after 6 months, 1 year, and so on?

[@WAEMIDIV]

Nothing remarkable happened, my Jeep was destroyed in a T-bone collision and I now have a different one with its stock steering box, with no plans to put the Redhead box in.

[@rgsrails]

Slight correction: XJ with driver's side airbag (1995-2001) should have the steering wheel locked from accidentally turning it due to the possibility of damaging the clock spring.

[@WAEMIDIV]

ah, I've gotchu there - (respectfully), the 95 and 96 XJ airbags are self-contained units, meaning there are no external collision sensors or wiring associated with the airbag anywhere else in the vehicle. The collision sensor is inside the airbag unit itself, so the clockspring doesn't have any fancy circuitry beyond the horn and cruise control. However, it's not a bad idea to lock the wheel anyway, because that not only ensures nothing can break, but also makes it easier to get the intermediate shaft off Good catch though, I like to see those XJ trivia gurus out there!

[@taherahmadi24]

My new favorite youtube guy!

[@WAEMIDIV]

Yeah Ahoy is pretty cool I agree kzbin.info

[@marcellopasini]

Great video, job and infos!!

[@BeastV33]

I have the stock steering on my Jeep. 2000 XJ. It pops when I turn left and back to center. Steering is reasonable. I had a mechanic replace and check all bearings and joints. Castor angle is good. I’m wondering if it’s coming from my steering. Almost seems like when I hit a bump the steering goes toward a certain direction.

[@YOUZTUBE2000]

Very helpful and well made!

[@supercharged00gtp]

Awesome video, really enjoying all your videos. I have a 2000 xj, wheel is super sloppy but when turning, seems like it takes a lot of effort compared to other vehicles that have had a steering box. Will the new box help. Mine has 221k miles. Thanks!

[@WAEMIDIV]

To me that sounds like a bad power steering pump. The pump is what provides Hydraulic pressure that assists in making the wheel lighter to turn, and if it's either low on fluid or malfunctioning in some way, then it can't pressurize and the wheel is heavier due to the lack of assistance from the pump I would first check the fluid level, then replace the pump, and make sure everything else on the steering linkage is tight. It could also need an alignment

[@xj_overlander]

WOOOO excited to get my info here.

[@xj_overlander]

Loved it. Such a great video and very helpful

[@RavenRedwood]

1:17 is gold 🙃

[@elev8j10]

I've been debating what to do with my steering box. I did the WJ V8 power steering pump "upgrade" in my xj and it failed spectacularly. Went through 4 of them before I went back to an oem pump but all the failed pumps blew a seal in the box and now it gets stuck when it's cold out and doesn't free up until warm. Watching this I think I will just put in this proper quality oem box instead of the Durango box. Thanks

[@Myrtlecrack]

How was that arm to get off when you did the Durango box? I nearly destroyed my puller today, and it didn't move an inch.

[@bradlfsh]

The Durango box is physically bigger I know. I think that's why a lot of people claim they're better but I haven't tried myself or seen proof one way or the other. They are hard to find in the junkyard there was about 12 Durangos only 2 we're the right motor both had been stripped down before I got there. Compared to an xj Theyre probably a lot less likely to have been beat on or forced to turn 35s

[@Deadbuck73]

Never mind steering! How’d you get the clock to light up?

[@taraaaron1242]

I read you issues about it giving out. Ya I was told the box from a Durango was a upgrade. It wasn't. What did you end up doing

[@WAEMIDIV]

I replaced the Durango box with a redhead box as seen in the video. As for the failed redhead box, I still haven't gotten a replacement because their customer service isn't really cooperative at all. I've called and emailed them and they don't answer the phone and I can't leave a message.

[@taraaaron1242]

OK. By dodge Durango box on my tj broke. The casting cracked. And it didn't keep the 35 straight. . Everything else was replaced when I did it. So I wouldn't recommend getting one. I put the psc big bore. On it and that was night and day

[@primal-lust3084]

i replaced mine but it feels kinda stiff and tight is that normal?

[@davidchappelle6480]

Hate Slack in the "Dignity" 🤣 My WJ steers Nice !!

[@DRT-81]

1:22 helicopter light is on OBDII that mess off there.

[@ari1234.]

Where the video with the 7/16s bolt?

[@zoddan]

Waiting is important 😂

[@bradlfsh]

How much does the angle of the box matter? The bolts being slightly smaller then the frame spacers one could tighten it with a few degrees of adjustment. Or am I overthinking it

[@WAEMIDIV]

I don't understand what exactly you're trying to adjust, the angle of the steering box itself isn't really adjustable... When the bolts securing it are tightened all the way at 65 ftlbs, it ain't moving, and if it does then there's a problem somewhere

[@fogstain]

I put in a reman durango box to replace my leaky xj box. Now it pulls to the right. Dont get it.

[@moejr14]

So since the red head busted what box do you recommend

[@WAEMIDIV]

I've heard bluetop makes good ones, but since then I've just had a stock box, never tried to buy a new one again

[@martinkuhne452]

The durango Box has bearings, I dont know from where you have the Information about bushings.

[@WAEMIDIV]

wranglertjforum.com/threads/dodge-durango-steering-gear-retrofit-faq.4113/ wranglertjforum.com/threads/durango-power-steering-box-swap.28839/ www.jeepforum.com/threads/durango-steering-box-swap.3882449/ wranglertjforum.com/threads/steering-box-upgrade-is-this-a-gimmick.24824/ www.jeepforum.com/threads/replacing-the-steering-box-upgraded-i-think.4383425/ www.cherokeeforum.com/f91/durango-steering-box-227746/ "The Lares plow part 1418 states 2.9 turns lock to lock. I called Lares. The 1353 does use bearings on the lower steering shaft. The 1418 plow version uses bushings." - Some dude on a forum So it seems people out there agree on the fact that it does have bushings, but Lares confirms only the snow plow versions do. It may be this discrepancy that causes some misunderstanding. The stock Durango box does have Bearings where the Snow Plow Durango box has Bushings. But the point is, the Durango box is not an upgrade regardless, whether it has bearings or not. As discussed in the first link, it may be trivially stronger in certain applications, but it's not designed for use with a Solid Axle.

[@martinkuhne452]

Sorry, but I changed the ZJ steering box to a durango steering box and it is a big improvement. No gap between teeth of the pitmanshaft and piston (adjusted by myselve).

[@beardedjalapeno5263]

So how's the replacement?? Is it worth getting the redhead???

[@WAEMIDIV]

Questionable. Not sure if you saw my pinned comment but their first box died in 3 months, and they were extremely reluctant to send a warranty replacement. They denied it could be the steering box, they told me I had a frozen ball joint - but a trustworthy local shop confirmed without a doubt the steering box had internally failed (as if it was that hard to tell) and so they finally let me send it back for a replacement. So far, I've had the second box for 1 month, and it seems fine. Time will tell. Personally I've heard nothing but good things about Bluetop, so I'd try them before Redhead

[@stephenpatton8690]

I am of the opinion that your music is making the xj wander. Poor xj:(

[@tomsmith2361]

👍😊

[@Kfinch1992]

Would the box be suspect in an xj that steers too easily?

[@WAEMIDIV]

I dunno what you mean by too easily. Light steering sounds like a dream come true

[@Kfinch1992]

@@WAEMIDIV it feels like the front of the Jeep is off the ground. It's super easy but terrible for highways, a tiny bump in a curve you you'll unintentionally yank the wheel. I can actually kinda of spin the steering wheel and it'll keep turning.. there is no resistance

[@WAEMIDIV]

@@Kfinch1992 I've honestly never heard of this being a problem. You might have to dig into the ancient texts of the forums

[@KentonPrather]

Haha hell ya dude

[@DP-yv7zv]

😂three fourths hahahaha

[@ully007]

Dignity 😳💀💀

[@chadowens9215]

I think someone got a discount for trying to sell redhead

[@WAEMIDIV]

I wish, but I had only heard great things until of course my Redhead box failed after 3 months of stock driving. Upon some deeper investigation I found many people reported the same failure after about 3-6 months. I have a pinned comment explaining the situation.

[@bradcampbell7253]

Death wobble-- the long tie rod, the thin weak one should be replaced with IRO thick solid steel one. Uses stock tie rod ends.

[@Cheatmaster60]

You haven't cut anything because your jeep is stock as hell lmao

[@EmyBrowndogMom]

I have heard way too many bad things about Redhead. No thanks!

[@82GHOSTKIDKODY]

I like your videos and your sense of humor ,you know what you're talking about ,one question how much did you make from KZbin making this video?.

[@WAEMIDIV]

This particular video generates $1.76 a month on average. It's been up for 27 months and that adds up to $47.58. I could have made a bit more by running mid-roll ads, but I dunno about you, nothing infuriates me more than being interrupted by an ad when I'm trying to learn something. So not a single one of my videos has mid roll ads, but that's a monetary sacrifice I'm willing to make in the name of quality. If any of my videos do have mid roll ads, let me know, because I'm gonna raise hell with YT

[@jjuggernaut3218]

Was that pitman arm bolt right hand thread??? Looks like it was spinning righty-tighty?