Another Odd Steering Issue
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Another Odd Steering Issue
I've noticed that my 2005 F250 Crew Cab 4x4 (87k miles) recently started to wander a bit on the road. I had it aligned thinking this would solve my problem. However, when I got it back it still has the same issue. The most interesting trait I noticed is that the truck will pull left when accelerating and then pull right when I let off the accelerator. I have checked the rear leaf spring bushings, front suspension components, etc... and nothing stands out for wear, damage, etc... (nothing obvious that is...)
I first noticed this issue after I installed a set of 2011 take-offs (20" wheels and Michelin tires) on my truck. Previously I was running 18" BFG All Terrains. I didn't notice this issue before. Im thinking the timing of the symptom showing up with the new tires is a coincidence...but wanted to throw it out there as a thought. Im not convinced that tires will make the vehicle pull when accelerating or decelerating.
Im looking for anyone that may have experienced this issue or might provide some direction as to what to look into first. Im a Superduty newcomer as I purchased my truck used about a year ago and could use some assistance.
I first noticed this issue after I installed a set of 2011 take-offs (20" wheels and Michelin tires) on my truck. Previously I was running 18" BFG All Terrains. I didn't notice this issue before. Im thinking the timing of the symptom showing up with the new tires is a coincidence...but wanted to throw it out there as a thought. Im not convinced that tires will make the vehicle pull when accelerating or decelerating.
Im looking for anyone that may have experienced this issue or might provide some direction as to what to look into first. Im a Superduty newcomer as I purchased my truck used about a year ago and could use some assistance.
More Turbo
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 713
Likes: 5
From: Minneapolis, MN
I'm no expert, but my first thoughts are ball joints. Jack the front of the truck up and try to move the wheels by hand up and down and side to side to check for play. Hopefully someone a little more knowledgeable than I will provide more input for you.
And welcome to FTE!
And welcome to FTE!
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Update to Odd Steering Issue
Per the input from Wizardsr I checked the ball joints on my F250. I found that the joints were indeed worn. I was not expecting worn ball joints at 89k miles, but I guess this is an issue on the 05 and later trucks (my Brother and Dad have 2001 and 2003 models without any suspension issues at 200k+ miles). I inspected the entire front end and found the boots for the tie rod ends were cracking..which means more wear if not addressed now. So, I replaced the following on my rebuild: upper ball joints, lower ball joints, all three tie rod ends (driver, pass, drag link on pass side), knuckle seals, axle tube seals (new designed seals from Ford/Dana to replace the problematic original design), and o-rings for the axle hub/bearing assembly.
The rebuild eliminated the erratic wandering on the highway. However, I still have an issue with pulling left and right when accelerating and decelerating. So, Im looking for info on the bushings on the front radius arms/trailing arms that attach to the axle tube on the 4x4 models. I think these bushings may be worn causing the "torque steer". The only other area that I think would cause this would be the bushing on the rear leaf springs. Again, any info would be appreciated.
The rebuild eliminated the erratic wandering on the highway. However, I still have an issue with pulling left and right when accelerating and decelerating. So, Im looking for info on the bushings on the front radius arms/trailing arms that attach to the axle tube on the 4x4 models. I think these bushings may be worn causing the "torque steer". The only other area that I think would cause this would be the bushing on the rear leaf springs. Again, any info would be appreciated.
Postmaster
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 2,564
Likes: 11
From: Wayyy NoCal, USA
I have experienced funkiness like that due to tires of differing diameters or with internal construction defects. Or differing pressures.
After checking all tire pressures:
A quick check: Swap the rear wheels/tires from side to side and see if that changes the behavior. If not, swap the fronts. If still no change, move the fronts to rears.
If still no change, then dig into suspension.
After checking all tire pressures:
A quick check: Swap the rear wheels/tires from side to side and see if that changes the behavior. If not, swap the fronts. If still no change, move the fronts to rears.
If still no change, then dig into suspension.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Torque Steer?
Thanks for the suggestions. I have already checked the tire pressure and all were within 2 psi of each other. The tires are brand new Michelins. I have swapped right to left with no difference. I will swap the front to back to see if there is anything odd that is contributing.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
HAMMERDOWN103
1999 - 2016 Super Duty
11
Jul 26, 2020 11:52 AM
Daveseviltwin
1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
4
Jul 8, 2014 02:22 AM
86bigred
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
10
Mar 21, 2009 10:56 PM
