Truck feels squirrels at 70mph.

Good evening everybody!
*(Feels squirrelly)* I couldn’t edit the title, autocorrect got me.

I have a 1st gen that I’ve owned since 2001 and I recently picked up an 05 2wd double-cab.
This second gen doesn’t seem to hold to the road at speeds of about 70 and above. I can’t explain it, other than I have to concentrate, and stay on the wheel in order to keep it tracking straight.

My old 1st gen rides much better, even up to 85 plus.
It’s not a vibration- more like a wandering kinda feeling, that makes me wanna stay at or below 65mph.
Both truck have 265/70R16 all terrain tires with lots or tread left.

I’d appreciate your suggestions, might take it into the shop next week and have them look it over.

 

I would get an alignment.

 

As well as balance wheels and check tire pressure.

 

All the above plus you may need new shocks. Shocks are often overlooked as far as correcting suspension problems

 

The front of these trucks are not aerodynamically designed for speed. That front belly/skid plate aids in pushing air under the truck at speeds you are writing about.

 

Everything above except #6.

You need the suspension checked out, to include the steering rack. I would not rule out the rear suspension either.

 

Also, might just be the tires themselves. I've had that before where the old tires made for a not very confident drive on the freeway. They were inflated and balanced fine. They just felt like they were all over the road especially in curves. Had all 4 tires replaced and it was a night and day difference. Then I'm flying around curves and off ramps without a care.

 

What part of the Squirrel is it Feeling

 

The part that nets the squirrel an undisclosed settlement and an NDA.

 

I appreciate the feedback.

Today I drove home with the windows rolled down, and I wasn’t really paying attention, but I got up to near 80mph and it didn’t seem to be weaving around nearly as much.
We have had a ton of windy days around here lately. I still plan on dropping by an auto shop tomorrow and getting them to inspect it.
I don’t want them to make up something, maybe I’ll just tell them I bought it recently and want to have the LBJ’s checked?

 

I wouldn’t direct them to the lbj’s. They no doubt will say they need to be replaced , whether they do or not. Just tell them the truck sometimes to wander a tiny bit within the lane and you want the suspension inspected. Tell check the entire suspension, lbj, shocks, alignment etc. Then what ever they say take it to another shop and get another option. You are dealing with a 20 year old truck, they are going to find some shit wrong with it. Good luck.

 

Update for you all who may be interested.
I had the tire shop check the entire front end, told them what I shared here and they said it’s all in great shape.
I guess I’m just not used to it?
My 98 drives much better, even at 80mph… I don’t understand- but hey it was great news, at least it wasn’t a $1000 repair.