Friend in need

[R Anestis]

I have a friend at work who does not have internet access, so he asked me if I would post a question for him:

He has a '96 3500 with a 5spd. He is having problems with the steering. Anytime he is going over 35 or40 mph, if he hits a bump, the steering wheel starts wabbling back and forth and it won't stop 'til he slows down. His swaybar links and steering linkage all seem to be tight. So does anyone have any ideas?

Thanks for any help, -Ron

 

[gitchesum]

Do a search for "Death Wobble". You'll find lots of info

 

[TRodney]

Check your tires!!

I had the exact same problem!!



Everything was tight or replaced and decided that it must be my tires. Since they were almost wore out, I replaced them with BFG AT KOs and the problem went away immediately. I then brought it to an alignment shop to check everything and when I discribed the problem, he said it was something he has only seen with 10 ply tires. A belt comes loose and causes this problem. He suggested to not run 10 ply tires unless needed for towing, and to never run them below 60 lbs of air.



Just to let you know, that except for this problem, my old tires looked and drove fine.



Later,

Tim