2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission another front end problem

[OrangeCummins]

I just bought a 97 reg cab and something in the front end is messed up. i am pulling my hair and need ideas. It runs down the road perfectly straight dosnt pull or anything, but when you make a turn in either direction the front end "bucks" like it is in 4wd. I have checked the whole front end and everything is tight, it has a new track bar and both tie rod ends and the universals and ball joints are tight. I also checked to make sure the 4wd is disengaging and it is. The only thing left that i figure it could be is the tires but i havent had a chance to throw my stock wheels and tires off my 09 on yet to see. Does anyone have any other suggestions to what it could be?

 

[fest3er]

Pick up the front end an ensure the tires spin independently. If not, the center disconnect could be exhibiting failure or the spiders could be welded.

The other possibility is that the clutches in the rear end are sticking *really* badly. Far beyond chattering idly, they could be 'using their outdoor voices'.

 

[FDavid]

Mine does the same thing. I believe its a sign that either your universals are going bad or the power steering pump is taking a crap.

 

[rotohead]

Is it worse going left vs right? My money is on it being axle ujoints and if it's worse going right I bet it's the left axle and vise versa. You stated the everything is tight. Axle ujoints can be binding up and you'll need to pull the shaft(s) to find out for sure.

 

[OrangeCummins]

yea the tires spin independently so i dont think its the collar not disengaging. as far as the u joints they seem to be tight there is no slop that i can tell of. im starting to think when the guy i bought it off of put the new track bar and tie rod ends on maybe he didnt get it realligned. the only thing that has me stumped on that is the fact it will go straight down the road if you let go of the steering wheel.

 

[GrantP]

It's the axle shaft u-joints...