Questions and Answers
Explorer Vibration
Q. I have a 1994 Ford Explorer with an automatic transmission (4X4) with 57,000 miles. When I drive I have a slight vibration which appears to be coming from the front end. I especially notice the vibration at 65 mph. During the winter I noticed a loud noise coming from the front right side when I made a left turn into a driveway.
It seems I feel every bump on the road. It doesn't ride as smooth as before. I'm the original owner and the vehicle has never been involved in an accident. Until recently, the vehicle sat in the driveway with limited use. There is rust underneath the vehicle from sitting for long periods.
I replaced the tires last year with Goodyear's
I replaced the front shocks last week
I replaced the front bushings last week (the right side was wore out)Since replacing the shocks and bushings the vehicle rides better but I still notice the vibration. Could the springs need to be replaced or does the drive shaft need to be balanced? Is their any other bushing, etc., that could be worn out or dry rotten?
Please help.
A. A vibration can be difficult to track down. Since the truck has been sitting for a while, it's possible the tires have developed a flat spot. I always eliminate the tires as a problem first by rotating them front to rear. But in this case I don't know if that would help. I would certainly try it and see if there is any change. If there is, then you found the problem.
By replacing bushings you are not really fixing the problem, you are fixing the symptoms. When you installed the new bushings, you dampened the vibration somewhat. I would look at the axles and axle U joints next. It's possible one of the axle U joints are frozen. Because of the heavy rust I would look at everything that spins, you might even have a brake rotor that is out of balance as well.
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