Steering Column sounds Unhappy

I to have a 97 TJ. About a year ago the turn signal switch locked up and had to be replaced under warrenty. Since then (perhaps before) I have noticed the same problem. The noise only happens when below about 55 degrees when the jeep is still cold. When it warms up it goes away. there was an old post a couple of weeks ago about a different vehicle, same problem. they talked about spraying some sort of lubricant in the column wear the plastic might rub. I'll watch this post too, as I would like ideas to fix also steven

I have been having the same problem on my YJ.....squeaks really bad when its cold. I posted something about it a week or 2 ago and there were a lot of good replies and ideas so search the board for that thread and try some of those things. I haven't tried them yet because I have been to busy but the advice you usually get on this board is pretty solid so I would try it.

absolutjeep

I brought up all the posts within the last month from "absolutjeep". The closest thing I could find was the "Front end squealing". It doesn't sound like the same thing to me. For instance, mine wouldn't make any noise at a stoplight. It is definitely linked to the act of turning the steering wheel. It almost sounds like rubber on metal or rubber on rubber. But, thanks for the input. If I am looking at the wrong post, please let me know. I did try searching through past messages before posting my original question. I couldn't find anything similar.

mtc

There was a TSB for just that problem. Easy fix. Squirt some white lithium spray on the rubber boot where the shaft goes through the firewall. Also take a screwdriver and slide it between the boot and steering shaft so the grease will penetrate onto the sealing area. Most of the time, this will cure the noise.