2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Steering Knuckle Question...

[Gonehawkn]

OK. maybe someone could answer this for me. i was under my truck the other day and noticed that the drivers side steering knuckle had some redish/orange rust around and near one of end caps. could this be a sign of the needle bearings in the cap getting ready to crap out on it? the passenger side went out on me about 3yrs ago. but, when it let loose, it almost came apart, and made a very obvious clunking in the front end. so far, all i am getting is a little steering wander that has not been there in the past. thanks for any input on this in advance.



Bill

 

[Clinton]

Are you talking about the u-joint? If you are, then yeah, its the needle bearings, but they are probably already shot. What you're seeing is water that has gotten in there and is running out. A sign that there is no more grease left in the joint. Grab it and twist in all directions to check for play.



If you are indeed talking about the knuckle, then I suppose you're calling one of the ball joints an end cap. Pull the tire/wheel and check those for play per the FSM.