Vibration/Shudder at speed

[Robbo]

My GW has had a nasty vibration from time to time at about 75 mph. Never could figure out a consistant scenario for when it would happen. Vehicle didn't wander or anything, just an occasional shudder which could last a second or two, to a minute or so. Now the shudder is occurring at 60 mh so I went under and checked around. The steering box isn't loose, the steering components all seem tight except for one. The pitman arm joint has slight play when the steering wheel is turned with the engine off. Could this create the shudder?

bad spellin' edit

[ September 06, 2003, 03:05 PM: Message edited by: Robbo ]

[Wagoneer622]

Might want to check you drive shaft universal joints as well. These can cause vibration when they are coming to the end of their lives. Iv'e had them when they were squealing at me. I would look at those as well and check for play with them. It's not fun when you drop a drive shaft.

[Bozz]

I get the same thing in my 79 W/T. I was assuming it was the Universal joint in the driveline but, have not got around to replacing it yet. Doesn't happen all the time just certain speeds over 60 and even then not real consistant.

[Ralph]

That kind of shudder is generally a u-joint somewhere. Time to get under the vehicle and check each of the for play. Also check the ones in the front axle, which are more difficult to inspect. I make it a rule to just replace all u-joints when I get a new project started. Goes a long way in the "Peace of Mind" department.

[Robbo]

The vibration feels like it's coming from the right front, I've removed the front driveshaft so it's not that. It has been about 50,000 miles since I've did the rears u-joints so I'll check them out.

[quikclimber]

i had a nasty vibe like that up front, found out it was a axle bearing which rides inside the spindle. if you have drive flanges the axle would still turn even if you have the driveshaft disconnected. just a possibility. good luck