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What is the Death Wobble? or Wobble of Death?

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Old Sep 9, 2010 | 12:56 PM
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Seth_787446
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Question What is the Death Wobble? or Wobble of Death?

I drive a 98 dodge ram 1500 5.9L Magnum V8 and whenever I reach about 65 or 70 the front of my truck starts to wobble really bad, I replaced the track bar but I doubt that had anything to do with it. What could be wrong?
 
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Old Sep 9, 2010 | 02:00 PM
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It could be any worn steering components, really. The only way to know is to inspect the heck out of the whole steering system, including sector shaft end play in the steering box. After the worn parts are replaced you'll want to get an alignment done by someone who will do what you ask rather than just saying "It's in spec". See: http://groups.google.com/group/alt.a...8f247de789d0ef
 
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Old Sep 10, 2010 | 12:02 PM
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death wobble is caused by an unparallel relationship between the drag link and the trackbar. most times, the track bar is the culprit as the bushings wear causeing the trackbar/drag link to move independently of eachother, thus causing uncontrollable wobble.

worn front end components, bigger tires etc will usually contribute to this, but its usually the Tbar..... now that you've replaced it, is it still have DW?

also, its deathwobble because it is a violent shaking sensation; you have no control. does your truck do it?

jack up the front end, and see if the wheels have play. i'm betting your balljoints are shot to pewp
 
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Old Sep 13, 2010 | 06:53 PM
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Originally Posted by Seth_787446
I drive a 98 dodge ram 1500 5.9L Magnum V8 and whenever I reach about 65 or 70 the front of my truck starts to wobble really bad, I replaced the track bar but I doubt that had anything to do with it. What could be wrong?
"Death Wobble" comes in a variey of forms. The type you are describing and the type that occurs after hitting a bump at highway speeds.

Both types require extensive inspection of the front end/steering components. Are there any modifications to your truck? i.e. lift kits, bigger tires, etc? Also, when you replaced the track bar was it new or used? If it was used are you sure the bushings were good?

Check the steering play at the box, check that the steering gear box is tight, tie rod end play, ball joint play, bearing wear, tire balance, these are the starting points.
 
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