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Shimmy in the front end, loose steering at 65MPH and up

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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 01:17 AM
  #1  
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micah97
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Default Shimmy in the front end, loose steering at 65MPH and up

Hey folks, I'm lost. i have a 97 Ram 1500 4X4 5.9L SLT and the front end has been getting very loose, almost to the point of being dangerous at high speeds. Some of the symptoms cleared up when I replaced the sway bar, SB links, and drag link. But it still has a very noticeable vibration. It makes my gut jiggle too much. I put Rancho shocks on it, and that seemed to help but it made the ride stiff. Do I need to go to a softer shock? Has anyone had this problem besides me? I'm considering replacing the cab bushings too.
Any and all help will be much appreciated!
See ya.,
Micah
 
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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 11:43 PM
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Fox Fader
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Default RE: Shimmy in the front end, loose steering at 65MPH and up

You got a bent rim?
 
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Old Sep 23, 2007 | 01:30 AM
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Default RE: Shimmy in the front end, loose steering at 65MPH and up

Wheels balanced lately? Track bar solid?
If those are good, get the front end aligned by a reputable shop and they should check for loose or worn items first. If there are any they will let you know and gladly offer to fix for a fee.
 
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Old Sep 23, 2007 | 07:50 AM
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HankL
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Default RE: Shimmy in the front end, loose steering at 65MPH and up

Old Ball Joints can cause those symptoms
especially the lower ball joints.
 
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Old Sep 23, 2007 | 07:16 PM
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micah97
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Default RE: Shimmy in the front end, loose steering at 65MPH and up

The rims are all good. I took them off the other day and looked them over real good. The track bar should be in good shape. I put a new one on last year. About the only thing I haven't replaced on the front end is the wheel hubs. How do you inspect the ball joints? I think you're right, I'll take it to the shop this week for an inspection and front end alignment. I may have them fix some of the stuff, but prefer to do as much as I can myself. It gives me a good excuse to hide in the garage. Thanks for the help, I'll let you know how it turns out.
 
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