I'm looking at a 89 cherokee for sale, apparently the only problems with it are the A/C not working and the steering is a little stiff.

I'm just wondering what would cause this to happen, or like how to fix it or whatever.

If you guys have any suggestions that would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

A/C may need servicing or the condenser leaks (common problem) the steering is a little harder with just that it's stiff. PS pump failing? rack & pinion binding? Any noises when turning the wheels lock to lock?

 

The a/c not working is normal. My 89 a/c didn't work either so I just remove everything except the compressor. Gives you a nice start to on board air system having a compressor already there. Most common problems with them is leakiing somewhere lost all your freon (which if i am not mistaken isn't what they are using now to get it cool). The steering after you reply to 04WJGuy's questions we may be able to put a little more light on the problem.

 

I'm going to see the jeep tonight, so I'll try to listen for a noise when turning the wheel. Will it make noise while not moving or only when it's moving? And I have a buddy who is a mechanic, he suggested the condenser too. I'll try to get him to have a look at it sometime too.

I'll post up again after I check it out, thanks guys.

 

The metal that Chrysler used on the condensers doesn't take well to r-12 (r-134a now days) or pretty much any kind of refrigerant so it's a common problem with all Jeeps. Sometimes you can use some seal leak and your good for a year or two with a do it youself kit.
Check to make sure that the PS fluid is full and reasonably clean. Could be something as simple as a bent steering damper or pitman arm.

 

Ok, so I just got back from taking a look at the Jeep.

The bads:
Rear main needs to be replaced
Exhaust manifold is cracked(but I can fix that myself)
A little bit of rust here and there(I can also fix that, my dad has some experience with rust)
Driver side door sags a bit, but I think that it could just be a loose screw or two

The Goods
The 4X4 was replaced two years ago(or fixed I guess)
New battery
New springs all around
Good amount of tread on the tires
Recently replaced brakes


The power steering fluid is pretty dirty, he thinks everything is good with the PS and that it might be a bearing somewhere on the front end, but I think I'll ask some mechanics my dad and I know. I don't really know though, seems like a fun little project.

 

Rust is a good excuse for cutting and installing armor, and who ever heard of a Jeep with a couple screws loose? Usually the only loose screw/ nut is behind the wheel...
I'd take it in for a mech inspection just to be on the safe side.

 

Hahaha ya this is going to be an awesome project. And yes there will certainly be a nut behind the wheel of this piece of crap!!!

 

Main seals suck and can be a bitch on the older Cherokees, don't even bother welding the exhaust manifold it's just going to crack again only worse, if the door is sagging don't forget it is a unibody design so it may be a bit more work than it looks, don't forget to check the rear upper shock mounts they tend to crack and the spring shackle mounts at the rear also.

 

Ya I don't want to fix the manifold anytime soon anyways, I like the sound. And I'll figure out the door once this beast is in my driveway.