I investigated further into the vibration in the front end of my 96 Grand Caravan. When I jacked up the passenger side front wheel I found I can move the tire from right to left about a quarter to half an inch. I thought it might be the tie rod end but it is tight the movement is coming from the other end of the shaft. Now I'm not sure what is at the other end and where the movement is coming from. I can not find a diagram to show me what the problem may be. Is this a repair I can attemp or is this a dealer issue? If anyone has any links or diagrams and especially advice I would appreciate it.
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OK, left to right movement can be caused by: worn tie rod ends, worn wheel bearing, worn ball joint, or worn control arm bushings. To replace the ball joint you would need a ball joint press. To replace the tie rod end, you would need a small puller. The control arm bushings are a major league job for a DIY'er. You'd be better off buying a complete control arm that has new bushings and a new ball joint. The wheel bearing is the easiest of all to replace. However, you will need a very large socket and a long breaker bar to remove the axle nut.
Bottom line, you should do some more checking to see exactly where the play is or take it to a shop. 1/2 movement is a LOT of play!
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Front wheel loose
