Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Loose Frontend

[wcjp]

Driving home empty today from work was interesting. It felt like I was towing something with an incorrect light tongue weight. I've only had the vehicle for two months. The only recent work was a 4" exhaust and new tires on Friday. I then drove 140miles home and loaded up the Jeep and trailer. I then drove about 150miles to go Jeepin'. Sunday afternoon I loaded the Jeep a little too far to the rear. After a slight rollercoaster ride I resituated the Jeep. This eliminated most of the sway. To and from work today something just wasn't quite right. It feels like the body isn't really attached to the frame. I grabbed hold of the drag link and tierod arm. Both move freely in my hands. Is this normal? Are the shocks bad? I know the bushings in the control arms have seen better days. I'd like to fix as soon as possible.

 

[baby.driver]

parts move freely in what directions?

 

[wcjp]

The drag link and tierod arm move towards the sky. They do not move side to side.

 

[baby.driver]

If they do anything other than pivot they are bad.



They are like ball joints in that the stud has a ball end that fits inside a socket. They are made to pivot, but if the ball is not securely held by the socket it is a bad part and will show in the steering.



Jay