Severe binding while steering, HELP.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
Severe binding while steering, HELP.
'95 F-250, 4x4, 170k+ miles, rusty Michigan truck with the good ol' 351. Great truck, but since being down in Louisiana it has developed a serious binding/shuttering feeling which comes up through the floor and body of the truck while turning at lower speeds (out or into driveway, at stop signs). I do not use nor have engaged 4x4, I know it's not that. I have replaced rear gear oil, so it is not rear clutch pack chatter, the u-joints are new as well. There is significant play in the inner/outer tie rods, as well as stabilizer arm. Power steering is smooth and pump easily turns the large tires, no leaks either. Any ideas what is going on here, ya'll? Any experience and or opinions are appreciated. And if this is already discussed in a thread, link me there I am sorry to make an unneccessary post.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 3,716
Likes: 583
From: Chillicothe
I know you said you haven't used 4wd but even if you're in 2wd and the u joint lines up right it can cause difficulty steering. So read this o e
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ng-in-4x4.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ng-in-4x4.html
Lead Driver
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 7,955
Likes: 591
From: Greater Austin, Texas
What size tires do you have, on what rims? Does this only happen at full lock, or any turn? I am wondering if your tires are rubbing on the radius arms - mine do. I have 32x11.50R15 BFGs on factory 7.5" aluminum wheels.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
235/75 factory 16" rims, this cannot be the issue. I have felt tire rub before, this is much more metal on metal type of binding, and it is also even at a slight turn of the wheels left or right, forward or reverse.
Trending Topics
FTE Emeritus
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 2,288
Likes: 200
From: springfield Missouri area
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Most Surprising 2026 Ford Truck Features!
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Ford Trucks Coming to Mecum Indy 2026
Brett Foote
5 Best / 5 Worst Ford Truck Wheels of All Time
Joe Kucinski
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2018
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
Gotta admit it guys, it's in the shop at this point. I have a big trip coming up this weekend (1000+ miles) and can't sacrifice the time needed to do it myself between work. Plus, with worn steering components and the age of this truck, I would not feel right with it on the road towing thousands of pounds without the work being warrantied. Appreciate the quick and thoughtful responses, ya'll. I'll follow up later this week if anyone is curious as to what the issue(s) were.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 730
Likes: 0
I sure hope you have better luck and find someone better than the two businesses who couldn't align my f150. One was a local shop, the other was nationwide and obviously does everything in a big HURRY. So much so, their name is similar. Being AARP age, I have determined never again to use a business who has any form of urgent or hurry or quick or anything in their title. And, never use a business with "Budget" or "Econo" in their business name either. Because it's not going to be, in the long run. It's like the signs on cars and business cards with little fish and biblical sayings. Surely some are genuine and heartfelt, while others use it to sneak up on unsuspecting customers and take them to the cleaners.