[V8] Vibration and Alignment

[dsaad at icehouse.net]

Sorry I can not help directly, but I can tell you that I used to have no end of
problems getting my Explorer aligned and balanced. In my case, it was always the
tires were not properly balanced (for vibration issues anyway). I am a
persistant customer (some might call me a PITA :-) but when I pay for a balance
- that is what I want and I don't leave until I get it. In the worst case we
found that the balance machine was out of whack. They had to call in the factory
rep to fix it. Who knows how many defective balance jobs they did until I came
along - but in the end I formed a good relationship with the shop owner and he
takes my complaints seriously now. In fact he often personally test drives my
cars just to be sure. Of course that does not mean I always get top notch
service - my last alignment left the steering wheel off center just enough to
make me crazy.
They always fix the problems but it sucks to have to keep going back.
If your balance is in fact good, then check for a tire/wheel out of round
condition. If you have ever managed to skid hard on a really rough surface (like
a chip sealed road) you can quickly wear a flat spot in a tire.

Dave


Quoting Jason Wilkerson <wilke_jb at yahoo.com>:

> Hey guys,
>    I have been watching, but have had nothing to help with lately.  I have
> posted on this subject before but, never quite got a definate response.  I
> have had an issue with the v8 for some time now, that when I go to get an
> alignment they take her out back, spend about ten minutes and say "she
> should be fine now" - when in truth she still pulls and wears tires out.
> I have had this happen on 4 occasions with two different shops.
> Everything up front is new, struts, control arms and bushings, and tie rod
> ends.  Why can't they get it in line, could the sub-frame mounts cause
> this?  I know the car got into a fight with a snow drift before I owned
> it, but it tracked fine when I first bought it.  Also, there is a loud
> 'pop' in some instances at slow speed.  It is not a cv joint, I'm sure,
> but rather something that sounds like it is hitting the floorboard. It
> only seems to happen when at slow speed with the wheel partially turned
> and the suspension is compressed.  I can't find anything loose under the
> car, or anything that looks like it is rubbing or hitting the frame, have
> you guys ever come across this?  The other thing is vibration, At about 85
> it is unbearable, but it is just slightly noticeable at 75.  I know I need
> new rear struts, but would that cause a vibration that seems like it is
> coming from the front?  I know I also need new front tires but it seems
> that this was happening before the tires were worn.  Any input is
> appreciated - thanks in advance.
>
>                                 Jason
>
>
>
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