Well, I have encountered my first problem with my truck. Last night I was helping my neighbor who was putting in some field drainage tile. To get there I had to drive through a couple deep ditches. I dropped into the first one harder than I should of but in my mind not near hard enough to break something. The others I took much slower. I was in 4WD at the time. Well when I got home and I was pulling into my shop I noticed a catch in the steering like something was loose. I really don't know how to describe it. It happens when turning and goinging over a bump. I quickly looked at the steering box underneath and couldn't find anything, but when it does it you can feel it in the steering wheel. Also the other thing I noticed is now when taking off in 2nd gear if I clutch it, the whole truck jerks/shakes for a second. It gives me the impression that there is a engine or tranny mount loose. Or could I of twisted a u joint and it's about to break? I know I'm not describing the problems very well. They are easy to replicate but hard to describe. I did put the truck back in 4WD and the jerking when I clutch it goes away??? Any hints on what to check would greatly be appreciated. 2001.5 quad long bed, 5 speed with 51K miles on it.

 

I'm not sure, but you might have a busted ball joint. You can check by jacking the front end and pushing on the outside of the tire (top and bottom of it). If there is any play in it, then one might be bad. Sorry I can't help you anymore.

Good luck,
Hunter