Hi... I've searched the forum and didn't see anything like this...so I hope I'm not reposting something.

I've got a 99 5.2 and just started feeling a vibration in the steering wheel.

To date, I've been having a small problem with a slipping overdrive / high drive gear. It started about 2 weeks ago. It is only slight and kicks in as long as I don't pick up speed too quickly. I don't think it has anything to do with the vibrating, but thought I'd add it just in case.

So, here are the details:
1. The vibration only happens when I have the gas pedal pressed. The RPM doesn't matter. The vibration stops as soon as I take my foot off the pedal.

2. When I make a left hand turn, I can hear a "clinking" sound coming from that side. It sounds like something is loose. The sound comes and goes.

3. I lifted the car and tried to shake things to find play. The only thing I couldn't get to easily was the steering box. The front drive shaft looks ok. Since it happens when the gas is pressed, my guess is it might be coming from my trasmission or transfer case.

Any help is appreciated!

Thanks,
Kevin

 

Check the motor mounts,
FF

 

motor mounts are uncommon, but possible, if you have slipping problems with the transmission start with a fluid/filter change and band adjustment DO NOT FLUSH THE TRANSMISSION

on the clinking sounds check all the bolts in the area the noise is coming from even the lugs, and brake caliper bolts, make sure the balljoints look good and are tight, if they are riveted in they could be bad i would consider replacing them.

 

Has the transmission fluid been checked and is it burnt? From what you are describing the transmission clutches may have hot spot and is causing your vibration on take off's. The clucking sound could be Steering box bolts loose, tie rod ends,lower ball joints and loose upper control arm.

 

Also have a tech take a peek at your d-shaft's for any irregular wear/ujoint/missing clips/dents/missing weights/etc

 

+1 Duranged!

 

Thanks for all the input. I haven't taken it to someone to look at just yet.
For some reason, when I'm in 2 wheel, my part time 4 wheel light stays on.
Maybe related?
I'm trying my best to save $$ and avoid getting someone I don't know to look at the tranny.