Steering problem??
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Steering problem??
I have a 96 F-150 5 litre 4x4 and I have recently developed a steering problem. After I make a turn, I have to manually turn the steering wheel back into place rather than it going back to the straight ahead position by itself. I don't have to fight with it to get it back in place. It goes back rather easily buy it should, and always has gone back to the straight position by itself. Occasionally, after making a left hand turn, the steering wheel jerks to the right slightly as I am manually trying to straighten out. As far as I know, the power steering pump is fine. The fluid is up and it sounds normal, although it is rather dirty. All the front end components seem good and tight. There is no shake or anything else to indicate a front end problem. Any ideas guys? Thanks for reading this...
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: Annapolis,MD.
I see this on an almost daily basis,and asked on this site on a weekly basis.If all the steering/suspension parts are in good shape,then it is most likely a "dry" balljoint.The factory one's are non-greasable,after a period of time they begin to "stick"(just before they show signs of wear).If you can,Knock the the tie rod ends loose and see if the knuckle moves freely back/forth by itself.If it doesn't than the balljoints are the cause.An overtightened steering box will do the same thing,but if it hasn't been touched before the prob. started than it shouldn't be a problem.
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Steering
Thanks guys. Thats a good place to start. Oddly enough the problem seems to have dissapeared the last day or two but I think that it will probably return. At least I have somewhere to start now.
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: Annapolis,MD.
Like Popa Tim said,the u-joints will do it,but it's not as common a problem.The bad news is when it's a u-joint causing the problem,it has a tendency(sp)to tear up the auto/locking hub assy.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 1,324
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From: Michigan
Yeah, I just replaced the hubs with manuals along with new rotors, pads, and bearings. I'm pretty sure it's the u-joints because the problem goes away when the hubs are locked. I guess I'll see when I am able to get in there.
Thanks
Al
Thanks
Al
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 1,324
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From: Michigan
Is the inner u-joint on the pass side prone to failure? If I didn't have to do that one it would make the job alot easier. Is there a way to get around pulling the diff out? The driver side should just pull out of the diff, right?
Thanks for the info.
Al
Thanks for the info.
Al
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Steering..
Just a follow up about my steering problem in hopes that it my help others down the road. The problem did return and it ended up being the outer u joints. Thanks for all the advice and suggestions guys.