While driving, I have a low vibration that increases to thumps (not hard thumps but thumps none the less)about 4 thumps per second when I turn the wheel. Could it be CJ joints or alignment? I had new tires put on in early January. None of the CV joints looks damaged.

 

Did it surface as soon as you put the tires on?
Are the new tires fouling up on anything?
Were they the same size as your original tires etc?
If not, it could well be your CV joints.
Al.

 

I didn't notice this thumping/vibration when the tires were put on. It started probably a few weeks ago (1-2 months). Think I could just try and replace the innards of the CV Joint?

 

Does it thump more when you turn in one direction than another? This sounds like it could be a wheel bearing. Try driving down a straightaway and doing some S turns and see if it occurs only when turning one direction. If so, the unloaded wheel (inside) may be bad. Let me know how it goes if you do this test. Could be a cracked tie rod also but try the turn test first.

 

It'svery pronounced when I turn left. The thump may be there when I turn right but it's very noticeable when I turn left.

 

Just for everyone's info...I checked the steering linkages last night and they looked good.I plan on checking the ball joints tonight.

 

Check the wheel bearings in your left front tire. You'll need to get it up off the ground to do it. Just grab the tire firmly with both hands and move the wheel back and forth to check bearing play. It's a good idea to do the right front also as a comparison. Rec you also check for play, or cracks, in the tie rods, you can do that with the wheels on the ground.

 

Am I looking for an excessive amount or any play at all?

 

Yes, If you get a wobble out of one tire you most likely need to replace the wheel bearings. Our trucks have a history of bad wheel bearings.

 

If you can make it "clunk" then it's too much. You're probably not at that point yet but should be able to feel it if there is some bearing wear. Compare the front wheels and see what you think.