I have a 316 1998 ram 1500 4x4 quadcab.

When i drive it, as i hit bumps, apply brakes, go around turns... all different things, i notice a weird vibration in my steering wheel. it feels as if the steering wheel is rattling like its loose but it really isnt. if i pull back and forth on the wheel, its really steady and tight. I dont know whats wrong, could it be my steering stabilizer is shot or a shot bearing or bushing?? I know nothing about the steering of this truck because i have never had a problem before this. Is it safe to drive until i can get it fixed once a diagnosis is made? any help at all would be greatly appreciated. thanks!

 

my truck did the same.. it vibrated once i was well aware my hub was shot. jack up your truck.. pull off your front wheels.. grab the studs that mount your wheels.. rock the hubs from side to side.. see if you can move them towards the front or rear of your truck.. if you can.. you have a bad wheel bearing/hub since its a whole assembly. i just picked one up at auto zone for mine.. it was 116.99 with tax. its a dynapak setup.. 3 month warranty. its not to bad to take out n install dont get raped at a shop.. theres a step by step on www.pavementsucks.com/tech/hub.php

 

I suspect worn out trackbar. Go underneath and watch the mounts while someone turns the wheel back and forth a few inches ... movement will be apparent.

 

good point.. forgot about that

 

what does it look like? is the swaybar the same thing? also, should there be no movement of the trackbar whatsoever? what does one cost? thanks

 

The trackbar is what centers the front axle (it is not the swaybar) and is a very weak design. There is a mount on the passenger's side axle (low down) and driver's side frame. The bar runs between the mounts. If it's worn out, you'll see quite bit of movement. Not sure what they cost but I upgraded mine to an HD adjustable one a long time ago. There's also an adapter made that allows you to install the better 3rd gen bar.

 

hey, thanks alot. does the bar get bent slightly or something or are their bushings or something that cause it to get worn? So, while im under the truck, have some one go lock to lock and the bar shouldnt move and if it does then it needs replaced? How reasonable is it to say that this is the culprit to my vibrations in my steering wheel? and how difficult is it to replace? is it the matter of a few bolts and done? sorry for all the questions. thanks

 

The track bar should be bent looking, have someone turn the wheel back and forth and you will see the play in the trackbar if its bad. They are simple to replace.

 

No need to go lock to lock ... a few inches is enough.

Bent is normal.

 

what do you guys think of this? http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/94-95...1%7C240%3A1318 brandnew oem with 1 year warrenty. Its almost so cheap it makes me nervous. Stovk ones go for $219.00. what do u guys think?