This is my first time on the site pls. forgive me if I'm a lot unfamiliar with the proper way of doing this....but here goes.

I have a 96 F-250 2WD Diesel w/257K mi. Ive tried to keep the broken/worn things repaired and have done so as long as the problem could be identified. However, this problem has eluded me as well as several mechanics. I have replaced upper and lower ball joints, shocks, wheel bearings (with all components) and made sure tires/wheels have been balanced, yet I still have a creaking noise that sounds as if it is coming from the left front area and very often from a normal take off (to up to 30-35 even 40 mph) a violent shimmy occurs and will only stop upon applying the brakes or jerking the stirring wheel left or right momentarily. What's up ???? This is big time frustrating. Am I doomed to the process of elimination ????

If anybody has a solution I really would appreciate some guidance.

Thanks,
T.

 

I would check all teh steering. Check tierod ends for play and such. The problem should be pretty easy to find with it being that bad. Something is wore out pretty good. Also Axle pivot bushings could cuase the same thing. Look under the whole front end for something loose.