I've got a 1997 Ram 4X4, 360, auto,ext cab sport. 164,000 miles. Lately when traveling down the road and the wheels are turned slightly to the left, I can detect a slight shudder or roughness coming from the front end. I removed the tires and checked the hub/bearings/u-joints. On the drivers side when I turned the axle by hand it seems smooth. Didn't feel or hear any bearing noise. The u-joints are not greasable.

The u-joint behind the driver's side wheel has a minute amount of play.

Then I removed the passenger side wheel and checked the hub/bearing/u-joint on that side. When I turned the hub I could hear/feel a slight noise. So, I thought hub bearing. Went to Autozone and bought one for $114.00. Got home and removed the hub/bearing/axle. Removed from the truck, the hub turned easily and quietly. But, the axle u-joint was almost frozen. So, I replaced it with a new synthetic lubed u-joint from Autozone.

I reassembled the above using the old hub/bearing. Thought sure this was the problem. But, alas, it still has this slight shudder. Someone else on this forum said theirs was popping when turned left, but I don't hear a popping.

Anyone got an idea what's causing this?

Thanks for you help.

Clava

 

Mine does the EXACT same thing, but only when it gets warmed up fully...

I have narrowed it down the the breaks, my drivers side break piston is sticking, and when turning there is a change in direction and there is just enough presure left on the pad to make a shudder...
I think thats what it is... Mine is directly related with the breaks... Im almost positive.