Lifted Supercrew Death Wobbles
#1
Lifted Supercrew Death Wobbles
So, my father has a 2002 Supercrew with a Fabtech 6" lift and 35" tires on it that has running good since he bought it in '03. a while ago, the truck started shaking at low speeds, 35-40mph, when accelerating. He took it to a mechanic and the guy replaced the pitman arm, which helped a little, but didn't totally resolve the issues. Lately, he told me it had gotten worse and wanted me to drive it to see what I thought could be wrong.
Oh My God, I don't see how he was driving this thing on a daily basis, or at all for that matter. Several times, I had to pull off the road because I was loosing control of the truck. So, I brought it home and jacked up the front end to find the steering completely shot. It easily had 4" or more play from right to left. The front shocks were also toast.
Last night I replaced the drag link, all 4 tie rod ends and front shocks. Today, it drives like a new vehicle. I can't tell you how bad the problem was with this truck, it was definitely dangerous to be driving. Every joint in the steering had substantial play. When it started shaking the whole truck would go into a jolting harmonic that would basically rip it off the road.
Even with everything repaired steering wise I am contemplating upper and lower ball joints. If you are having this problem, or have a lifted truck, definitely keep a close eye on these parts.
How someone who charges for their service and calls themselves a professional could let a person leave their shop with a vehicle this dangerous to operate is beside me.
Oh My God, I don't see how he was driving this thing on a daily basis, or at all for that matter. Several times, I had to pull off the road because I was loosing control of the truck. So, I brought it home and jacked up the front end to find the steering completely shot. It easily had 4" or more play from right to left. The front shocks were also toast.
Last night I replaced the drag link, all 4 tie rod ends and front shocks. Today, it drives like a new vehicle. I can't tell you how bad the problem was with this truck, it was definitely dangerous to be driving. Every joint in the steering had substantial play. When it started shaking the whole truck would go into a jolting harmonic that would basically rip it off the road.
Even with everything repaired steering wise I am contemplating upper and lower ball joints. If you are having this problem, or have a lifted truck, definitely keep a close eye on these parts.
How someone who charges for their service and calls themselves a professional could let a person leave their shop with a vehicle this dangerous to operate is beside me.
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