It’s possible to replace the column u-joints, but if you have a shop do the work, it would probably end up cheaper to just replace the column (cost of u-joints would be cheaper, but it’s less labor to swap columns as compared to pulling column, replacing u-joints, then reinstalling column). Again, a shop that specializes in steering work would be the place to go.
If the column u-joints are binding/popping, I would expect you’d be able to feel it in the steering wheel. I’d also expect it to be a consistent, reproducible problem as opposed to intermittent; however that doesn’t mean it’s not possible.
Something I didn’t think about before - how old are/how many miles on the front struts? It’s common for the upper mounts on these vans to dry out and start making a popping sound when turning. This can easily be checked by touching the coil springs while a helper turns the wheel - you’ll feel the popping in the spring if it’s happening.
If the column u-joints are binding/popping, I would expect you’d be able to feel it in the steering wheel. I’d also expect it to be a consistent, reproducible problem as opposed to intermittent; however that doesn’t mean it’s not possible.
Something I didn’t think about before - how old are/how many miles on the front struts? It’s common for the upper mounts on these vans to dry out and start making a popping sound when turning. This can easily be checked by touching the coil springs while a helper turns the wheel - you’ll feel the popping in the spring if it’s happening.
Quote:
If the column u-joints are binding/popping, I would expect you’d be able to feel it in the steering wheel. I’d also expect it to be a consistent, reproducible problem as opposed to intermittent; however that doesn’t mean it’s not possible.
Something I didn’t think about before - how old are/how many miles on the front struts? It’s common for the upper mounts on these vans to dry out and start making a popping sound when turning. This can easily be checked by touching the coil springs while a helper turns the wheel - you’ll feel the popping in the spring if it’s happening.
Front struts are original. I was able to check the driver's side by myself with the window down and turning the steering wheel and didn't feel any movement of the spring. Will need to have someone to check the other side.Originally Posted by GumbyRT
It’s possible to replace the column u-joints, but if you have a shop do the work, it would probably end up cheaper to just replace the column (cost of u-joints would be cheaper, but it’s less labor to swap columns as compared to pulling column, replacing u-joints, then reinstalling column). Again, a shop that specializes in steering work would be the place to go.If the column u-joints are binding/popping, I would expect you’d be able to feel it in the steering wheel. I’d also expect it to be a consistent, reproducible problem as opposed to intermittent; however that doesn’t mean it’s not possible.
Something I didn’t think about before - how old are/how many miles on the front struts? It’s common for the upper mounts on these vans to dry out and start making a popping sound when turning. This can easily be checked by touching the coil springs while a helper turns the wheel - you’ll feel the popping in the spring if it’s happening.