Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Steering wheel tug while turning

[CGALATE]

The truck feels like its in 4wd, usually when going slow. Such as turning left at an intersection.



I'm not sure what could be causing this. If it is the 4wd how can I check. I know the shift lever is in 2wd and when I use 4wd the indicator light comes on.



I used 4wd today where I dump yard debris and the tug is alot stronger when in 4wd which is normal. I have owned 4wd vehicled for 15 years and I am used to them feeling alot more free through the steering wheel than this.



Any help would be great!

 

[Bob V]

Could be a front axle u-joint

 

[DBraunig]

Jack the front wheels off the ground so the wheels can roll freely. Leave the key on enough so the steering is not locked. Turn the front wheels one at a time while rotating them by hand, whichever side binds up when you turn it is the binding u-joint.



Hope this helps,



Dave

 

[CGALATE]

will it cause some crazy tire falling off accident or anything dangerous if i still drive it?

 

[DBraunig]

Nope, not if it's the joint. Check it to be sure. check your ball joints, tie rods and wheel bearings while you have it in the air.



Dave

 

[catskinr]

Mine was doing that when the TB started to go bad. It is starting to do it again. For me its time for 3rd gen TB upgrade.

 

[CGALATE]

TB? What does this abreviation mean?

 

[tp0d]

He's talking about the Tracking Bar, it connects one side of the axle (passenger) to the frame, under the drivers feet. Mine has caused a clunk before when turning left, mostly, but has never caused a tug...

I also vote for a bad U joint. Put the front of the truck on stands and turn each wheel by hand while someone turns the steering wheel left and right. . You`ll see which one is locking up. . If you have one bad joint, its best to do both, dont mess around.

good luck

-j

 

[CGALATE]

what about the wheel bearing in the hub? Could this be causing symptoms as described?

 

[QWaller]

I'll vote: u-joint at the wheel. . Sounds like what mine felt like way back when. I had a 97 that I lost one at 60k miles.

 

[CGALATE]

It stoped! Im thinking there is a vacuum leak for the 4wheel drive sys. Any Ideas?

 

[edgeman]

well i would say check the tie rods. Mine did this a month ago and all the tir rods were bad. Mine would also stop for a while. At one point the steering locked up. just somthing to check.