Two problems related to steering gear box have been reported for the 1998 Jeep Wrangler. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Vehicle makes noise when shifting from second to third gear and from third to fourth. The noise is most prevalent when first shifted and disappears as the speed increases. It sounds like vibrating tin. Another noise occurs when slowing down, a whirling sound like a whistle. The noises are not random. They happen every time.
Air bag sensor light illuminated and knocked out digital console readings. Both doors bulked in half due to cold weather, failing to latch shut. Steering box is leaking due to a crack. Last item was replaced three weeks prior to recurring failure. Transmission and torque converter were repaired due to leaking transmission cooler lines.