Vibration Somewhere In The Front End

All,

Original owner, the truck is bone stock, no off roading, no lift kit, no big tires or engine mods. Stock shocks were shot at 30K. Put on a set of KYB's.

Just had the truck up on the rack [again] trying to find a small...but very annoying vibration. It's been there about a year now; yeah, I know!

It comes through the steering wheel and happens each time I go over a speed bump [at about 30 or so] or hit some rough asphalt that jars the front end a bit...BUT, when the truck is loaded with 250+ pounds of composite roofing shingles, the vibration diminishes dramatically---vibration is still there, but nowhere near as irritating as when the truck bed is empty!

The best way I can explain it is it feels like a bolt is slightly loose and there is some "play" between parts. The asphalt/speed bumps cause a "jarring" of the loose part(s), causing vibration. Sorry I'm not more precise.

It's a 2003 SR5 extended cab w/a camper shell. Got a bit over 43,000 on the odometer.

Two mechanics say they can't find anything. All the bolts are tight.

Motor mounts? Nah, not at 35K!?

Anyone have any ideas where else to look?

Many thanks for taking the time to respond!

 

Check your u-joints and carrier bearing.

 

Wow, your truck is so young.

I would 2nd thew question about whether or not you are a 4x4. And go even further and ask are you a 5 lug or a 6 lug.

It makes a difference as the front suspensions are not the same between 5 and 6 lug configurations. And obviously, if you are a 4x4, then there are more factors in the front to consider. I do agree tho, a vib in the steering wheel points to front wheels, tires, steering and front diff and axles.

Adding weight in back changes the balance quite a bit and actually reduces the load on the front.

 

Hi guys,

No, it's not a 4 X 4 and it is a 5 lug wheel.

The next time I have the truck in, I will have them check the "U" joints and the carrier bearing. At 45,000 miles and driving this truck like a baby carriage, I would be surprised, but I'm grateful for the help.

Many thanks for all of your insights. I will post again after the next inspection just to let you know what surfaced by the third exam.

 

Might be low miles but bushings and seals can certainly dry/crack up in 14 years.