Hey all! I just stumbled across this forum when searching for a solution to my problem...what a great place!!!

I posted this in the Diesel forum, but figured it was applicable here as welll.

So here is my problem: I have recently noticed a vibration in my front right at practically all speeds. The vibration isnt too bad, but it is quite loud, as if I am driving over the rumble strips they put on the sides of the freeway. My initial thought was wheel bearing, so I jacked up the truck and tried to wiggle the tire up and down, but it is TIGHT....no slop at all. My tires were bald, so I decided this would be a good time to get a new set, thinking it was maybe a warped tire or out of balance...not the case. Even after new tires and balance & front end alignment, it still is there......anyone have any idea what else it could be?

I also noticed that, at ANY speed (5MPH or 55MPH), when I am going straight or left, it has this sound, however, when I turn just slightly to the right, and any place after this point, the sound goes away. Now I am thinking maybe power steering pump or something???

Thanks!!!

Josh
2003 Dodge RAM 3500 Diesel 2WD

 

tie rod ends? Do you have a lift/level kit on the truck?

 

No lift/level kit on the truck...As far as Tie rods go....is there a way to visually inspect them for defect? I looked at them, and pulled to see if there was any slop, and there wasn't...is there another thing I can try?

Thanks!

 

You should be able to look at them and see if the boots are worn and you can see if there's any grease coming out of them. Since it's a 3500 you may have zerk fittings on there so they should be greaseable. You possibly have a bad shock. Also, just look at the upper and lower ball joints and sway bar links while you're there. Make sure all the bolts are nice and tight. Could be quite a few things.

 

Okay, so the Dodge dealer, a tire shop, and I all looked and ruled out a wheel bearing...apparently the old jack-it-up-and-wiggle-the-wheel method failed me! I couldn't see it being anything other than the wheel bearing, so I bit the bullet and bought a new hub and bearing set ($350!!!!!), and no more problems!!!

Thanks for your help!

Josh

 

I had the same problem on a sebring, growling noise when driving but when turning even slightly it would go away then come back when I straightened the wheel. Also checked mine for slop with tire in the air, and had no movement. I changed hub out anyway and my noise disappeared also.