Death Wobble

[Guggenheim99]

Was driving on the highway today at like 65mph and I was in a gradual turn and hit a bump and the truck began to have severe death wobble. Like the death wobble you see on YouTube of Jeeps and Super Duty trucks with solid front axles. It did not stop at all until I came to a stop on the shoulder. It was nearly uncontrollable. Now every time I am in a turn at any speed, and hit a pothole, manhole cover, etc, it will start to death wobble. At slow speeds like 40 or lower it only wobbles for a second or 2 and goes way. Also noticed if I go to turn the wheel either way while stationary (more so right) it will have no assist and the truck vibrates and I can feel it in the steering wheel. Suspension and steering tight. Fluid level good. It will only death wobble when in a turn; if I am driving straight and hit a bump, it has no issues. Any ideas? Leaning more towards a rack and pinion issue but would like advice first. Thanks.

 

[Bgunner]

Death wabble is caused by some steering component loose on Rangers. IF your wheel bearings, tie rod ends and all suspension components are tights with shocks being good then it points towards the box/rack or connection to the the steering wheel being loose.

Since you said that there is lack of power steering while sitting still this points towards Power steering pump or box/rack issues.

Double check the rag joint/U-joint that is connects to the Box/rack to be sure there is no play there. If no play is found I too suspect the rack as being bad.