Mystery steering issues..

[apmurphy]

So I've had my truck in 3 times now for balancing and alignment and just got the brakes done but the issue hasn't improved. At low speeds (20mph) there is a low pitch grumbling noise from the front end, especially when turning left. The truck continues to pull right even after the alignments. Then once I get on the highway and hit 45+ mph the steering wheel bobbles back and forth as if i was driving over ski moguls. I brought it to a mechanic who said the noise might be from my rear axle but they didn't want to get into opening it up to explore more. Could my tire pressure be that far off? Or perhaps my front bearings are bad? Maybe the 33's are supposed to wobble on the highway? Any advice would be GREAT.

 

[srteach]

An 04 ford ranger has unit bearings. Those bearings can rumble and still be tight. They are pricey, but may be worth replacing anyway.

They are a possibility, but there is no easy way to tell. Check the differential, drive line ujoints, and the bearings.

 

[shane96ranger]

Have you taken a long look at the condition of your tires? If there are cracks between the threads, or if you have any blistering, it will cause these things you are experiencing. Also, poorly worn tires could do it. Have you tried rotating tires front to back?

If all of these things check out, I'd look into the bearings.