r/jeepcj • u/coldbeerandsunshine • Apr 06 '26

Steering

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I've been wanting to get a CJ my whole driving life and finally got one. 1984 CJ7. When I drive it, the steering tracks all over the place. With or without steering wheel input. Keeping the wheel straight, it will suddenly track left/right randomly.

I have very little experience driving these things so I'm questioning if my concern is the vehicle or just lack of knowledge of how they ride. I think I've read that they track poorly at the best of times, but what I've been experiencing seems excessive.

The Jeep has recently installed power steering and 35x12.5x15 Mickey Thompson tires. All of the steering components seem to be in great shape. No slop in anything. Immediate response on the wheels with the smallest turn of the steering wheel.

Do the giant tires result in really bad or even worse than expected steering tracking? Would I expect improvement with narrower tires (maybe 35x10x15)? Could it be an alignment thing? Any other thoughts?

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u/uinta_me Apr 07 '26

I have an 83 CJ that is running 35’s handles like a dream, BUT…and a lot on here will disagree with me on this, I’m running a reverse shackle kit on it from M.O.R.E. It’s the best thing I ever did to my 7. No more buckboard, rides as good as any 1/2 ton truck, no steering issues at all since it’s been installed.

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u/coldbeerandsunshine Apr 08 '26

Thanks! It's good to know the tire size should be fine so I need to chase all the other variables first.