Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Clunk felt in steering coming from the front end 97/12v

[Gator]

I've detailed the clunk in previous posts, however, no joy! Steve is helping rule out many things . To help rule out and clarify the problem, I'll list what is happening now. When I turn off the cruise control at speed, the clunk is felt especially in the steering wheel, and audibly noticed. This also happens when I step on the brakes with medium pressure while in cruise mode. Finally, I can repeat the clunk over and over again by stepping on the pedal and letting up quickly. On and off the pedal and the clunk is very strongly felt again in the steering wheel and heard.

I've replaced most everything in the front end from Luke's Link to tie rod ends x 4, arm bearings, shocks, brakes, ect. I have NOT replaced the steering box or steering rod. As for the driveline; replaced all yokes, joints, ect. Regularly grease all.

So, whats left? My friend with the very same 97/12V has identical problem. His is a manual. Mine is a A/T

HELP!

 

[JMcCoy]

Is it a 2wd or 4wd? Is there any slop in the front or rear axle. Vacuum actuators are failure prone and may hang up partially engaged. I know you said you replaced all the joints (I assume you mean U-joints), but sure sounds like one. Usually not felt in the steering though. I would put the truck on a lift and check for any loose or broken parts ASAP. It could be something small, or it could be something serious. Might also take a close look at your U-bolts. Mine nearly rusted through. Please keep us posted. Good luck

 

[fest3er]

Only things I can think of (in no particular order):

1. worn or broken engine mount
2. cracked/broken steering gear frame mount
3. failed suspension bushing(s) or loose bushing bolt(s)

Do you feel it in the floorboard (foot flat on the floor)?

 

[JKosten]

Check your control arms, track bar and motor mounts

Posted via Topify on Android

 

[JMcCoy]

Also check your transmission mount/bolts and yourcarrier bearing.

 

[hsmith]

I don't think that is unusual. A sudden release of power is causing that. On mine, especially when towing, I always have my foot on the pedal when deactivating the cruise. If I don't I experience what you are describing.

 

[budnate]

I don't think that is unusual. A sudden release of power is causing that. On mine, especially when towing, I always have my foot on the pedal when deactivating the cruise. If I don't I experience what you are describing.

same here .

 

[JKosten]

My motor mounts are going out. When towing with the manual trans, if I go quickly from acceleration to exhaust brake the engine oil pan catches the cross member a hair (just enought to wipe the oil/dirt off). I will feel it in the floor board.

Posted via Topify on Android

 

[hsmith]

If your mounts are that bad your fan may be getting close to the shroud also. I have new mounts for mine, just waiting for the energy as I am going to replace the pan gasket also.

 

[Gator]

THANKS GUYS! I'll answer the questions first. It's a 4x4. The only items underneath I ahve not replaced are the motor mounts. We are both going to do this when his garage warms up a bit*** I do not feel the clunk or bang in the floor board, only hear it and feel it big time coming thru the steering column and wheel. Control arms, track bar, bushings are all new within the last 6 months and did not make any difference. I will ck out the transmission and trans case bolts, thou we did give them a cursory look. U joints are new also. This happens at any time in the drive, unloaded or loaded. I let off the gas gently and it doesn't do it, let off quickly and bam! Oh, I ahven't changed out the old steering box or the shaft yet either. Saving up the $700 for that one. Good feed back, I'll do the easy ones and let you know. Waiting for my buddy to warm up the garage to r&r the mounts. We are in southwest Montana. Blessings, Gator

 

[Gator]

On the 12V 97, I forgot to mention I have 512,000 miles on it.