Anyone mechanically inclined and open to helping a newbie out? I've got an '02 TJ that I'm the third owner of and it's near the 100k mile mark so I'd like to do some maintenance as well as resolve some issues it has. However, I've done little to no car work (really only changing oil) so not sure what actually needs to be done or what to buy and would love some advice before moving forward. I'm kind of envisioning the first meetup to be guiding me into how to identify the problem and what needs to be done to resolve it. Then at a future date doing an actual wrenching party to guide me through the work.
I'll list out some issues and what I think from what little I know. A lot of it I could easily pay someone to do but I'd really love to learn how to do this kind of work on my own.
Known Issues:
Some additional info: I'm located in the Ashburn area. I've got some tools but its by no means an ideal mechanic shop. Thanks in advance for any and all insight!
I'll list out some issues and what I think from what little I know. A lot of it I could easily pay someone to do but I'd really love to learn how to do this kind of work on my own.
Known Issues:
- Steering is loose and straight tires don't correlate to straight steering wheel
- I have no clue what could cause the loose steering. I've got a good 10 degrees were I turn the wheel without the tires changing. From what I've read online it could be anything from the steering box to the linkages underneath
- The steering wheel not be straight with the tires seems like it could be a side effect from the loose steering so hopefully an alignment would help (really not sure about this one)
- Differential cover leaks
- Looks like I've got a very minor leak on both the front and rear diff covers
- Replace diff fluids and inspect gears
- Replace transfer case fluid
- Replace transmission fluid
- Inspect all hoses/belts and replace if needed
- Inspect ball joints, u-joints, etc
- Cooling system overhaul (seems like common recommendation online and found this link)
- Replace O2 sensors
- Replace spark plugs and inspect wiring
Some additional info: I'm located in the Ashburn area. I've got some tools but its by no means an ideal mechanic shop. Thanks in advance for any and all insight!