Just to update you all - I think the ghost is gone. The garage had identified a bad U-joint on the drivers side and replaced it, but passed the passenger side. I made the mechanic pull the U-joint out of the passenger side, even though he said it didn't have any play and therefore not bad. The U-joint was shot.

I put over 300 miles on the truck this weekend. She drives like the day I brought her home.

Thanks for all the advise. You guys helped a lot.

 

Glad you got it worked out. I think it was wise to get both sides done regardless. It's a lot of work and pricey but having the truck turn into oncoming traffic or into a ditch without much warning is not something to take chances on.

Unbelievable that a $30 part can cause such problems - and also cost so much to replace!

 

beerguy214, I had that problem years ago with an Expedition. It ended up being the tire. I switched sides on the front tires and the problem moved with the tire. I put the suspect tire on the back and the problem went away. My tire guy said it was a problem with the sidewall.

 

What happens is they dry out so they they are only shot in the sense that they are stiff. They would be fine if you took them apart and greased them. I sprayed penetrating oil on mine while turning in circles and they are back to normal.