brad smith

Well guys, let me lay the groundwork first so you get an idea
what I am working with here:

'81 CJ-7 with an older Rancho 2.5" lift (with the super hard
springs)
258 all original engine (no rebuilds, and I think 93k miles) with
some upgrades (intake, headers, carb.)
SR-4 transmission
Dana 300
All New brakes (9/03) (except for master cylinder, booster, and
hard-lines)
New 31" tires and wheels
New steering column and lower steering column (10/03)

with that out of the way, I have these three general areas of
concern:

1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
very good coating on the valves ( [
http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?

2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
something else though?

3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.

Thanks so much for looking and helping if possible. This is my
first jeep and I am loving every minute of it (even when under
the hood!)

Brad.

Guest

"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?

The valve covers on those things always leak like a bitch. Take it off,
clean it up and make sure the gasket service is clean. I used quite a lot
of RTV and properly torqued it down afterwards to seal it up. I didn't even
use a gasket and it lasted me two years until I yanked the motor.

As far as the leak at the back of the engine and the one that looks like it
is coming from the transmission. That would be your rear main seal which
isn't a hard job but it is time consuming and messy. You have to have
patience when doing it but it can be done.

> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?

Sounds like mounts somewhere are toast. Check the engine mounts and also
check the transmission mount. I had the same problem on my 4.2L/Auto/NP231
combination. It turned out that the tranny mount ripped itself out because
of a dying engine mount.

> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.

Have you replaced the tie rod ends and your steering shaft at all? When I
first got my 1989 YJ it has so much play in the steering shaft and the tie
rods. I replaced those which helped but just like you I also had play in
the steering box. I had a local shop do a rebuild on it which cost me
$150CAN and it was good to go. The Jeep steering perfect after that.

Hope it helps!

www.canadianoffroad.com
Check it out!

Guest

"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?

The valve covers on those things always leak like a bitch. Take it off,
clean it up and make sure the gasket service is clean. I used quite a lot
of RTV and properly torqued it down afterwards to seal it up. I didn't even
use a gasket and it lasted me two years until I yanked the motor.

As far as the leak at the back of the engine and the one that looks like it
is coming from the transmission. That would be your rear main seal which
isn't a hard job but it is time consuming and messy. You have to have
patience when doing it but it can be done.

> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?

Sounds like mounts somewhere are toast. Check the engine mounts and also
check the transmission mount. I had the same problem on my 4.2L/Auto/NP231
combination. It turned out that the tranny mount ripped itself out because
of a dying engine mount.

> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.

Have you replaced the tie rod ends and your steering shaft at all? When I
first got my 1989 YJ it has so much play in the steering shaft and the tie
rods. I replaced those which helped but just like you I also had play in
the steering box. I had a local shop do a rebuild on it which cost me
$150CAN and it was good to go. The Jeep steering perfect after that.

Hope it helps!

www.canadianoffroad.com
Check it out!

Guest

"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?

The valve covers on those things always leak like a bitch. Take it off,
clean it up and make sure the gasket service is clean. I used quite a lot
of RTV and properly torqued it down afterwards to seal it up. I didn't even
use a gasket and it lasted me two years until I yanked the motor.

As far as the leak at the back of the engine and the one that looks like it
is coming from the transmission. That would be your rear main seal which
isn't a hard job but it is time consuming and messy. You have to have
patience when doing it but it can be done.

> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?

Sounds like mounts somewhere are toast. Check the engine mounts and also
check the transmission mount. I had the same problem on my 4.2L/Auto/NP231
combination. It turned out that the tranny mount ripped itself out because
of a dying engine mount.

> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.

Have you replaced the tie rod ends and your steering shaft at all? When I
first got my 1989 YJ it has so much play in the steering shaft and the tie
rods. I replaced those which helped but just like you I also had play in
the steering box. I had a local shop do a rebuild on it which cost me
$150CAN and it was good to go. The Jeep steering perfect after that.

Hope it helps!

www.canadianoffroad.com
Check it out!

JimG

Valve cover gasket, rear main seal, loose tranny mounts, and loose steering
box mounts. That's what I would be looking at... been there, done all that.
Some vibration could also be caused by a bad clutch/pressure plate and
flywheel... they could be "wash-boarded" from heat.

--
JimG
80' CJ-7, 258 CID
35" BFG MT's on 15x10 Centerlines
4.56 D30-D44 SOA
D300 w/4:1 & Currie twin sticks
Warn 8000i w/dual batteries
LockRight F&R


"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> Well guys, let me lay the groundwork first so you get an idea
> what I am working with here:
>
> '81 CJ-7 with an older Rancho 2.5" lift (with the super hard
> springs)
> 258 all original engine (no rebuilds, and I think 93k miles) with
> some upgrades (intake, headers, carb.)
> SR-4 transmission
> Dana 300
> All New brakes (9/03) (except for master cylinder, booster, and
> hard-lines)
> New 31" tires and wheels
> New steering column and lower steering column (10/03)
>
> with that out of the way, I have these three general areas of
> concern:
>
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?
>
> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?
>
> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.
>
> Thanks so much for looking and helping if possible. This is my
> first jeep and I am loving every minute of it (even when under
> the hood!)
>
> Brad.
>
>

JimG

Valve cover gasket, rear main seal, loose tranny mounts, and loose steering
box mounts. That's what I would be looking at... been there, done all that.
Some vibration could also be caused by a bad clutch/pressure plate and
flywheel... they could be "wash-boarded" from heat.

--
JimG
80' CJ-7, 258 CID
35" BFG MT's on 15x10 Centerlines
4.56 D30-D44 SOA
D300 w/4:1 & Currie twin sticks
Warn 8000i w/dual batteries
LockRight F&R


"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> Well guys, let me lay the groundwork first so you get an idea
> what I am working with here:
>
> '81 CJ-7 with an older Rancho 2.5" lift (with the super hard
> springs)
> 258 all original engine (no rebuilds, and I think 93k miles) with
> some upgrades (intake, headers, carb.)
> SR-4 transmission
> Dana 300
> All New brakes (9/03) (except for master cylinder, booster, and
> hard-lines)
> New 31" tires and wheels
> New steering column and lower steering column (10/03)
>
> with that out of the way, I have these three general areas of
> concern:
>
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?
>
> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?
>
> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.
>
> Thanks so much for looking and helping if possible. This is my
> first jeep and I am loving every minute of it (even when under
> the hood!)
>
> Brad.
>
>

JimG

Valve cover gasket, rear main seal, loose tranny mounts, and loose steering
box mounts. That's what I would be looking at... been there, done all that.
Some vibration could also be caused by a bad clutch/pressure plate and
flywheel... they could be "wash-boarded" from heat.

--
JimG
80' CJ-7, 258 CID
35" BFG MT's on 15x10 Centerlines
4.56 D30-D44 SOA
D300 w/4:1 & Currie twin sticks
Warn 8000i w/dual batteries
LockRight F&R


"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> Well guys, let me lay the groundwork first so you get an idea
> what I am working with here:
>
> '81 CJ-7 with an older Rancho 2.5" lift (with the super hard
> springs)
> 258 all original engine (no rebuilds, and I think 93k miles) with
> some upgrades (intake, headers, carb.)
> SR-4 transmission
> Dana 300
> All New brakes (9/03) (except for master cylinder, booster, and
> hard-lines)
> New 31" tires and wheels
> New steering column and lower steering column (10/03)
>
> with that out of the way, I have these three general areas of
> concern:
>
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?
>
> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?
>
> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.
>
> Thanks so much for looking and helping if possible. This is my
> first jeep and I am loving every minute of it (even when under
> the hood!)
>
> Brad.
>
>

Drink

Hi Brad,
Well, sounds like you've got a few, fixable problems. I agree with most
of what the NG is saying with a couple of twists.
That valve cover's plastic, right? It's definitely leaking. So, what I
do is, prior to RTV'ing, I'll clean the mating surfaces spotless and remove
any oil film with acetone and a light rag. The wife's nail polish remover
works great (avoid "nail conditioner" additives since I don't know what it
is).
It sounds like the rear main seal is probably seeping/leaking too. The
valve cover can leak out the back and leave oil that looks like the rear
main seal. I think your rear main's leaking because of the jerking and
snatching at the transmission. A little bit of oil can cause your clutch to
slip, grab, slip, grab, etc. It'll get progressively worse when your
engine/transmission mounts slowly die. You should definitely replace the
mounts (shop around 'cause I found 'em between <$10 - >$35). Changing the
mounts will help but I bet you'll see that it still jerks. If you do change
the seal, I strongly recommend resurfacing the flywheel and maybe another
clutch to make everything right.
The oil-in-cylinder sounds like it's getting in through the valve guides
and seals. If that's the case, you might be due an overhaul on the head (or
just buying a reman. head to swap). If the head needs refurbishing, the
rest of the engine might be due and it'd be fiscally sound to start saving a
little here and there to do the deed. But, there is another trick.
I usually don't recommend trick liquids, powders, poultices, etc. But,
you may try an oil additive that conditions seals. I had a moderate leak
and this stuff did the trick for me. I'd buy the stuff straight vice
something else that's mixed with something else (although a lot of the "high
mileage" oils have this mixed and that's good). I can't remember the name
but I think it came in a brownish/bronzish plastic bottle. Run a bottle
through for a week, change the oil and add another bottle. That might
soften up the old seals and cut your leaking. Now for the front end play.
You should have an adjuster nut with lock nut on top of the steering gear
box, right? Try adjusting that just a little tighter. All you do is take
up the slack; don't cinch down on it. I think you should have 1/2" of play
at the steering wheel if memory serves me right. Beyond that, you just have
to get rid of all the play: column-to-gearbox, wheel bearings, ball joints,
tie rod, etc. Miniscule play really adds up so start with the biggest
culprit and keep going 'til you're comfortable. Or broke:)
o_o_o_o
Best Regards, /| ,[_____],
Jim, WP3JQ |ŻŻŻL --O|||||||O-
()_)Ż()_)ŻŻŻŻŻ)_)
EM60qk 30.447439N 086.628959W
"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> Well guys, let me lay the groundwork first so you get an idea
> what I am working with here:
>
> '81 CJ-7 with an older Rancho 2.5" lift (with the super hard
> springs)
> 258 all original engine (no rebuilds, and I think 93k miles) with
> some upgrades (intake, headers, carb.)
> SR-4 transmission
> Dana 300
> All New brakes (9/03) (except for master cylinder, booster, and
> hard-lines)
> New 31" tires and wheels
> New steering column and lower steering column (10/03)
>
> with that out of the way, I have these three general areas of
> concern:
>
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?
>
> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?
>
> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.
>
> Thanks so much for looking and helping if possible. This is my
> first jeep and I am loving every minute of it (even when under
> the hood!)
>
> Brad.
>
>

Drink

Hi Brad,
Well, sounds like you've got a few, fixable problems. I agree with most
of what the NG is saying with a couple of twists.
That valve cover's plastic, right? It's definitely leaking. So, what I
do is, prior to RTV'ing, I'll clean the mating surfaces spotless and remove
any oil film with acetone and a light rag. The wife's nail polish remover
works great (avoid "nail conditioner" additives since I don't know what it
is).
It sounds like the rear main seal is probably seeping/leaking too. The
valve cover can leak out the back and leave oil that looks like the rear
main seal. I think your rear main's leaking because of the jerking and
snatching at the transmission. A little bit of oil can cause your clutch to
slip, grab, slip, grab, etc. It'll get progressively worse when your
engine/transmission mounts slowly die. You should definitely replace the
mounts (shop around 'cause I found 'em between <$10 - >$35). Changing the
mounts will help but I bet you'll see that it still jerks. If you do change
the seal, I strongly recommend resurfacing the flywheel and maybe another
clutch to make everything right.
The oil-in-cylinder sounds like it's getting in through the valve guides
and seals. If that's the case, you might be due an overhaul on the head (or
just buying a reman. head to swap). If the head needs refurbishing, the
rest of the engine might be due and it'd be fiscally sound to start saving a
little here and there to do the deed. But, there is another trick.
I usually don't recommend trick liquids, powders, poultices, etc. But,
you may try an oil additive that conditions seals. I had a moderate leak
and this stuff did the trick for me. I'd buy the stuff straight vice
something else that's mixed with something else (although a lot of the "high
mileage" oils have this mixed and that's good). I can't remember the name
but I think it came in a brownish/bronzish plastic bottle. Run a bottle
through for a week, change the oil and add another bottle. That might
soften up the old seals and cut your leaking. Now for the front end play.
You should have an adjuster nut with lock nut on top of the steering gear
box, right? Try adjusting that just a little tighter. All you do is take
up the slack; don't cinch down on it. I think you should have 1/2" of play
at the steering wheel if memory serves me right. Beyond that, you just have
to get rid of all the play: column-to-gearbox, wheel bearings, ball joints,
tie rod, etc. Miniscule play really adds up so start with the biggest
culprit and keep going 'til you're comfortable. Or broke:)
o_o_o_o
Best Regards, /| ,[_____],
Jim, WP3JQ |ŻŻŻL --O|||||||O-
()_)Ż()_)ŻŻŻŻŻ)_)
EM60qk 30.447439N 086.628959W
"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> Well guys, let me lay the groundwork first so you get an idea
> what I am working with here:
>
> '81 CJ-7 with an older Rancho 2.5" lift (with the super hard
> springs)
> 258 all original engine (no rebuilds, and I think 93k miles) with
> some upgrades (intake, headers, carb.)
> SR-4 transmission
> Dana 300
> All New brakes (9/03) (except for master cylinder, booster, and
> hard-lines)
> New 31" tires and wheels
> New steering column and lower steering column (10/03)
>
> with that out of the way, I have these three general areas of
> concern:
>
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?
>
> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?
>
> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.
>
> Thanks so much for looking and helping if possible. This is my
> first jeep and I am loving every minute of it (even when under
> the hood!)
>
> Brad.
>
>

Drink

Hi Brad,
Well, sounds like you've got a few, fixable problems. I agree with most
of what the NG is saying with a couple of twists.
That valve cover's plastic, right? It's definitely leaking. So, what I
do is, prior to RTV'ing, I'll clean the mating surfaces spotless and remove
any oil film with acetone and a light rag. The wife's nail polish remover
works great (avoid "nail conditioner" additives since I don't know what it
is).
It sounds like the rear main seal is probably seeping/leaking too. The
valve cover can leak out the back and leave oil that looks like the rear
main seal. I think your rear main's leaking because of the jerking and
snatching at the transmission. A little bit of oil can cause your clutch to
slip, grab, slip, grab, etc. It'll get progressively worse when your
engine/transmission mounts slowly die. You should definitely replace the
mounts (shop around 'cause I found 'em between <$10 - >$35). Changing the
mounts will help but I bet you'll see that it still jerks. If you do change
the seal, I strongly recommend resurfacing the flywheel and maybe another
clutch to make everything right.
The oil-in-cylinder sounds like it's getting in through the valve guides
and seals. If that's the case, you might be due an overhaul on the head (or
just buying a reman. head to swap). If the head needs refurbishing, the
rest of the engine might be due and it'd be fiscally sound to start saving a
little here and there to do the deed. But, there is another trick.
I usually don't recommend trick liquids, powders, poultices, etc. But,
you may try an oil additive that conditions seals. I had a moderate leak
and this stuff did the trick for me. I'd buy the stuff straight vice
something else that's mixed with something else (although a lot of the "high
mileage" oils have this mixed and that's good). I can't remember the name
but I think it came in a brownish/bronzish plastic bottle. Run a bottle
through for a week, change the oil and add another bottle. That might
soften up the old seals and cut your leaking. Now for the front end play.
You should have an adjuster nut with lock nut on top of the steering gear
box, right? Try adjusting that just a little tighter. All you do is take
up the slack; don't cinch down on it. I think you should have 1/2" of play
at the steering wheel if memory serves me right. Beyond that, you just have
to get rid of all the play: column-to-gearbox, wheel bearings, ball joints,
tie rod, etc. Miniscule play really adds up so start with the biggest
culprit and keep going 'til you're comfortable. Or broke:)
o_o_o_o
Best Regards, /| ,[_____],
Jim, WP3JQ |ŻŻŻL --O|||||||O-
()_)Ż()_)ŻŻŻŻŻ)_)
EM60qk 30.447439N 086.628959W
"brad smith" <bradley_k_smith@hotmaill.com> wrote in message
news:ctZTb.25828$M81.10676@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> Well guys, let me lay the groundwork first so you get an idea
> what I am working with here:
>
> '81 CJ-7 with an older Rancho 2.5" lift (with the super hard
> springs)
> 258 all original engine (no rebuilds, and I think 93k miles) with
> some upgrades (intake, headers, carb.)
> SR-4 transmission
> Dana 300
> All New brakes (9/03) (except for master cylinder, booster, and
> hard-lines)
> New 31" tires and wheels
> New steering column and lower steering column (10/03)
>
> with that out of the way, I have these three general areas of
> concern:
>
> 1) Engine has always leaked oil from a couple places, near the
> bell housing (rear main seal I think) and also the bottom of the
> transmission always has a coating of oil on it. there is also a
> very good coating on the valves ( [
> http://home.kc.rr.com/jeepcj7/27.jpg ] I was able to see when I
> replaced the headers) Anyway, I have oil in the cylinders
> coating the valves and really coating the spark plugs. This
> question is easy, is there anything I can do about the leaking
> oil besides a rebuild? What about the oil on the transmission?
>
> 2) Quite a bit of vibration when in 4wd. Also when I first start
> out from a stop in 2wd, the transfer case shifter actually will
> shake side to side and hit the body tub. The vibration is
> multiplied when in 4wd and shakes the whole transmission and
> transfer case side to side so that I have to really grip the
> shifter to hold on. Sounds like engine/transmission mounts
> maybe... (all brushings/mounts are original and rotting) maybe
> something else though?
>
> 3) Steering - this is my daily driver and I have really worked
> hard to fix this. It looks like the power steering box might
> have a little bit of play. I have a lot of over steer and it
> acts like there is not enough caster - even though there are
> shims on the axle. Any suggestions would be a great help.
>
> Thanks so much for looking and helping if possible. This is my
> first jeep and I am loving every minute of it (even when under
> the hood!)
>
> Brad.
>
>