Posted by Keith in Washington [108.162.245.18] on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 12:16:51 :
In Reply to: Death wobble posted by jim lee [172.69.58.41] on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 17:12:47 :
It could be a multitude of things. Something is loose. It could be the steering box, drag link, steering arms, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, knuckles or spring eye bushings. You will need to do some simple tests to give you an idea where to start.
As Don said get a helper to turn the steering wheel back and forth.
First start by moving the steering wheel very little while watching the drivers side tire. Keep increasing the amount of movement until the tire just starts moving. It should start moving with less than 2” of steering wheel back and forth movement. If more than that get down and watch the steering box, drag link and the steering arm. Note where excess movement is. You might need to adjust the steering box to take out any slop to start with.
Once you have checked out the drivers side, continue moving the steering wheel until you see the passenger side tire start moving. It should be about the same as the drivers side. If not, then get under the truck and watch the tie rod ends and the steering arms on both ends. There should be no slop in any of them. Movement should be transferred through all parts with out any slop.
Now jack up the truck so both wheels are slightly off the ground. Grab each tire and try to shake it in the 12 and 6 o’clock direction. There should be no movement if there is the wheel bearings are loose or the knuckle bearings are worn. Try the 3 and 9 o’clock direction. There should be no movement. If there is it is either wheel bearings or tie rod slop.
These tests should give you some idea where your issues are.
Let me know if you need further help.