1986 F-250 6.9 Diesel
4x4
Automatic

My truck just started to exhibit these symptoms: There is a vibration that feels like it is coming from the wheels or the drive shaft, or the axle. When starting out the vibration is more defined (lower pitch) and with acceleration it become high pitch, though there is no noise associated with it. I can feel the vibration via the steering wheel. It feels as if the truck power is being retarded by this, like it is dragging.
I don't believe it is the wheel bearing, I've had bad bearings in my car and they make a low grinding noise and do not cause the car to vibrate.

Sorry I do not have a better description of the issue as it is difficult for me to pinpoint the source of it.

Thanks in advance for you help.

 

universal joint in one of the front axles.

 

I find it easier and more effective to begin from the outside working in. For whatever reason, parts seem to fail in this order and the further in the less likely the cause.

Bearings, Hubs, Axles, U-Joints, Slip Joints, Splines, etc. I'm sure you'll find it taking you're time.

Tom