I have a 1997 F 350 .
5.8
rear wheel drive

Over recent years used truck local, seldom on highway
I now have need too use truck more often. Highway .
Towing a boat
Rear wheels needed more traction was spinning at ramp ( no 4/4)
Purchased 4 new mud tires
dealer balanced wheels


Knowing I had front end issue ,
Installed new shocks, new tires, dealer balanced


Ride is much better. Now have traction at ramp but still have same issue

No pulling while driving , but find I drift over road lines .
I correct but feel not in control for a brief moment

Never did any major front end work and don't know what too look for ?
Saw a UTUBE video on changing pitman arm . Does not look like fun working on ground .

Jack up front with both tires off surface, move wheels ?? will drifting issue I am experiencing become noticeable with tires off ground ?
If pitman arm gears are worn how will play be indicated with wheels off ground ?
thanks for your help

 

You posted this in the wrong section bud. This is 1997-2003 F150 not F350. You might have better luck asking that question in the superduty area.

 

You mean like this.

 

you jack the front tires 2 inches off the ground, with a jack under the A frame, not the truck frame. You want the tires off the ground, but the truck in the "level running position", not tires hanging down several inches..... Now put the edge of a 4 ft 2 x 4 under the edge of the tire and pry upward.. look for movement of the tire relative to the A frame.. the upper or lower ball joint could have some wear.... next, grab the tire front and back and push- pull it similar to steering. Have someone look at the tie rod ends and steering arm components to see if anything ( ball joints, etc) are moving relative to the arms......... sometimes it helps to have a buddy look while you wiggle the tire.