2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Bad brake shake at 45mph

[Corndog]

Just bought my first CTD and couldn't be happier. Only problem is that when I apply the brakes between 40-50mph I get a violent shudder from the back end. I've read all the threads about the "death wobble" but my problem seems specific to braking. So far, I've rotated the tires, checked the rear drums/pads which seem fine. Loading the bed helps a little. Thanks for your help.

 

[Dane]

If you've ruled out the brakes, I would suspect the center support bearing (carrier bearing to some) Problem is there is no way to check it as they are "loose" when new.

 

[Corndog]

Well, I ended up replacing the rear drums and pads anyway, and that didn't fix the problem. Turned out to be a loose bolt in the steering linkage, which I only figured out when the bolt disapeered and I lost all steering while off-road in Baja. When I replaced the bolt and tightened it up, the shaking vanished.