I have a steering wheel vibration
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Joined: Dec 2005
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I have a steering wheel vibration
I recently bought a one owner, 97 Ford E-150 conversion van, 35K, which I have had a great deal of problems with so far. The four ball joints were out of spec about 1/4" (I think spec is 1/32"). I had the front end aligned, new Michelin tires installed and still have a vibration in just the steering wheel. I can not feel it anywhere else. My thought is, that the ***** joints caused a problem with the power steering, or some other part of the steering system. The PS also makes what I think is an unusual noise when turning the wheels more than half to three quarter turn in either direction. I would say it sounds like what you expect to hear at the end of the steering cycle. Anyone able to confirm this as a known problem, or how is this checked to be certain before I replace the power steering? This is a new one for me. Thanks!
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Joined: Apr 2000
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From: SD
Does the vibration get faster with vehicle speed? If it does, then it coming from a spinning part - like tire, rim, rotor, bearing, ect. It's common for the power steering pump to 'whine' especially when turning the wheels while parked. Often they will work fine for years that way, but the noise is annoying. The only repair for that is a new power steering pump. Be sure to flush out the lines and steering box at that time - or the dirty fluid will cause the new pump to whine soon.
Marty
Marty
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Actually, I had thought it was something to do with the motor. It has not worked properly since I've owned it. I was replacing one part after another. It does not seem to get worse the faster you go. But, like I said, you can not feel it anywhere other than in the steering wheel. I replaced brake pads, four ball joints, FEA, tires, MAFS, ICV (engine has been stalling), computer, belt and other normal service items as filters etc. My last hope was the tires yesterday, and that did not fix it. I've driven about 1200 miles so far, I knew from the first week the power steering did not sound right, but did not consider that the reason for the steering wheel vibration. Best clue, if it is of any help, is the ball joints were sooo bad, and probably driven that way for at least 12k miles, if not more. I am sure that had to beat up the steering components in some manner.
