I just noticed after yesterdays service appointment to replace the front universal joint, that the steering wheel isn't perfectly aligned. It is slightly turned to the right when the wheels are straight and I'm going straight down the road. Is this something only the techs can fix or can I save myself a trip back and do this adjustment myself? If it is a do it yourselfer, how do I proceed? Thanks, Tom.

Hi Tom,

First make sure a front wheel alignment was done. If not then have one done. If a front wheel alignment was done then the technician needs to re-align the wheel (ie take it back).

The 70 series cars have to have the wheel centered while doing a wheel alignment. If the wheel is not centered then you will have the problem your describing. To correct this you can do a re-alignment or adjust both tie rods at the same time.

What I have done is to mark the current position of the tie rods with a marker and by turning both tie rods the same amount you can turn the wheel with out messing up the alignment. If you have never done this before then I would recommend you take it back. This is not easy.

Good luck,

Steven---

If the steering wheel universal joint was replaced,and an alignment was done, that information (alignment) should have been on your receipt. There is a chance that an alignment was not done. To fix your crooked steering wheel, like the others have said, an alignment will be needed. If your receipt doesn't say anything about an alignment having been done then I'd call your service writer and inquire.

Your steering wheel's fine - they simply rushed aligning the front wheels. If you know how to align you front wheels (adjusting the tie rods) and have equipment to check alignment, go ahead. Probably easier to take it back or spend the extra bucks to go to a tire shop that knows how to do alignments right.

Usually this is a result of a tech in a hurry. Can you say "flat rate"? When the front end was realigned, the tie rods were not set equally. In a quality alignment, the tie rod adjustment for toe in is done such that the steering wheel is centered afterwards. PITA to get it right yourself. I would take it back so they can try again. I've seen guys pull the steering wheel and put it on straight, but this isn't the RIGHT way.

Bring it back to the dealer. While I have replaced a steering column in my old Jeep I would never mess with my XC (not for another 20 years).

My 2 cents