Front End Alignment - Adjustable/Offset Ball Joints: Overview

NUMBER: 02-12-99

GROUP: Suspension

DATE: Aug. 20, 1999

SUBJECT:
Front End Alignment - Adjustable/Offset Ball Joints

OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves installing offset ball joints to allow adjustments to camber, which were not previously possible on XJ, TJ and ZJ models and to camber and caster which were not possible on WJ models.

MODELS:

1997 - 2000 (XJ) Cherokee
1997 - 2000 (TJ) Wrangler
1993 - 1998 (ZJ) Grand Cherokee
1996 - 1998 (ZG) Grand Cherokee (International markets)
1999 - 2000 (WJ) Grand Cherokee

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
This Technical Service Bulletin releases new offset ball joints which provide the capability to make front-end alignment adjustments to camber and caster. Camber adjustments and caster adjustments on some models are fixed and built into the front axle. Caster adjustments could be made in the past on TJ, XJ and ZJ models. These parts are only to be used in situations where a slight lead or drift to one side of the road or another is occurring with no driver input or where a customer indicates that constant driver input is required to maintain straight ahead steering. These parts will not effect situations where a lead or drift condition is present only under braking.

DIAGNOSIS:

- Verify matching original equipment tires and wheels

- Inspect for any worn or damaged steering and front suspension components including wheel bearings

- Verify Tire pressures

- Inspect for tire condition and abnormal wear. Refer to section 22 of the appropriate service manual

- Road test the vehicle.

- Cross switch front tires. If the drift follows the tires refer the customer to the tire manufacturer.

- Verify that there is no brake drag present and that the condition is present with the transmission in neutral

If no problems are found and the condition is present, perform the Repair Procedure.

PARTS REQUIRED:

AR 05014876AA Ball Joint - 0.5 degree
AR 05014877AA Ball Joint - 1.0 degree
AR 05016972AA Ball Joint - 1.5 degree

EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:

Four wheel alignment rack

Ball joint remover and installer tool - # 4212F

POLICY: Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.

TIME ALLOWANCE:

Labor Operation No:

Install Ball Joint - One Side
02-10-60-90 3.5 Hrs.

Install Ball Joint - Both Sides
02-10-60-91 4.2 Hrs.

FAILURE CODE: P8 - New Part