My 99 Expy 4wd has an alarming 'catching' in the steering. When you turn to the left, it 'catches' and stops untill you push the wheel harder. It only does it while in motion, not when sitting still, so I can't see anything dragging or catching underneath it. Any suggestions?

 

Immediately have your front suspension and steering inspected by a competent mechanic.

Might be a failed ball joint, a failing tie rod/end, or a steering gear that has developed a defect.

Steve

 

Well, I know is not the ball joints, or the tie rods. It feels up high, like in the column. I a not too familiar with reciprocatig ball systems, not enough to diagnose the defect by feel. I am just wondering if it is a common defect on these fords. I havenspected the main steering components. Its difficult becauseit doesnt exibit and problem at a standstill.

 

problem solved

 

Problem solved by? Please make add to the informational archive of this forum by providing us with what resolved the issue.

 

I have noticed this problem when traveling up hill at speed (65-75mph) on broad sweeping turns. I would describe it as sort of a "notch" feeling. I've had the front end checked out twice....two different dealers who say everything is ok.
I believe it might be a little looseness in the steering box.

 

Mine was a plastic cover over the last knuckle at the bottom of the steering column, where it connects. The cover backed its way up, and when I would turn the wheel, the knuckle would catch on it. I snapped it back down over the knuckle, problem solved.