Overview
The Crown Automotive 52088242 is a power steering pitman arm for the 1999-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ). It is a stock replacement that keeps original steering geometry.
Within the steering linkage, the pitman arm is the lever on the steering gear that pushes and pulls the drag link. On the WJ it can wear at the splined bore or bend after impact, which loosens steering feel.
The arm has a stock replacement amount of drop and restores the original steering geometry.
The WJ ran for six model years, all on the list. As with other Jeep arms, a bent or loose arm is a typical reason for replacement.
The WJ’s steering linkage runs a drag link from the pitman arm to the steering knuckle, so a worn arm can cause play that feels like a loose steering box. Compare the new arm to the original before fitting.
It covers the 1999 through 2004 model years of the WJ.
Key features
- Power steering pitman arm
- Fits the WJ Grand Cherokee
- Stock replacement amount of drop
- Direct fit
- Covers 1999 through 2004 model years
Before fitting a replacement arm
A pitman arm is pressed onto a splined shaft at the steering gear, so removal usually needs a puller rather than force. Heat, hammering or prying can damage the spline or the gear housing. Clean the shaft and splines before fitting so the new arm seats fully and does not work loose under load.
The drag link connection should be checked during the job, since the link and its ball joint can wear alongside the arm. The steering box should be centered before the arm is set, and the nut should be tightened to the value in the service manual. After the first drives, recheck the nut and confirm the steering wheel sits straight.
- Use a puller to remove the old arm
- Inspect the drag link ball joint for play
- Recheck the nut after the first few drives
- Check the steering wheel centering after the job
Specifications
| Brand | Crown Automotive |
|---|---|
| Part number | 52088242 |
| UPC | 848399015829 |
| Product type | Pitman arm |
| Amount of drop | Stock replacement |
| Steering type | Power steering |
| Fit type | Direct fit |
Vehicle fitment
The manufacturer fitment list for the Crown Automotive 52088242 includes: 1999–2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) (Laredo, Limited, Overland, Special Edition, Sport).
It is for the Grand Cherokee (WJ) only. The ZJ Grand Cherokee and the Cherokee XJ are not covered. Check the year, model and trim against your vehicle first.
Installation notes
Release the drag link first, then pull the arm off the steering gear shaft with a puller. Fit the replacement with the gear centered, tighten the nut and check the drag link end.
What’s included
- One pitman arm, part number 52088242
