When I'm pulling out of a parking lot or anyplace that requires me to turn the wheel a considerable amount, I get a feeling in the steering wheel similar to when the truck is in 4WD and you turn on hard pavement.

Anybody experience this and if so what was the fix?

Thanks
John

 

most likely u joints put a set of greasable ones in it and youll be good to go

 

You can also get under the truck and grab the differential-axle part of the u-joint and start twisting back & forth. If there is ANY slop, then the u-joint is beginning to fail.

 

I have the exact year , model as your truck, symptoms were the same, it was the front U joints, they replaced them under the power train warranty for 100 dollars deductible.

Next if not already will be the driveshaft universal joints. Those were also under warranty.

I had all three replaced at one time, now I am waiting for the little electric fuel lift pump to fail, the one mounted on the fuel filter. I have 68,000 miles on the truck so I hope it last a bit longer.

The lift fuel pump is under the engine warranty.

Then your ball joints, mine are starting to get a bit of play in them at 68,000 miles.

Still they are very nice trucks ...

 

The problem with having the joints replaced under warranty is they'll replace them with the same junk joints. Then a few years later you'll pay to replace them again. Replace them with some good greasable joints and be done with it.

 

Thanks for the replies. To do the u-joints are you required to pull the hub. I've read all the horror stories about those and I'd rather not mess with them.

John

 

yes you have to remove the hubs, but snapon makes a tool for like 40 bucks that pushes the hub out from the four bolts that hold it on, its supposed to not damage the hub, i bought one now im just waiting for the binding sensation in the steering wheel.

 

Would you happen to have a part number for that tool. Also, where did you get it.

Does anyone have a part number for a good set of greasable joints. 04.5 4WD.

Thanks
John

 

If you do the socket and power steering method their not that bad. My passenger side popped right off first try. the drivers side took a little more work but I replaced both of them in about an hr. (85k miles)