Re(2): Suspension/Handling Problems

[steveb@newkla.kla.com (Steven Buchholz)]

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 I have the same problem concerning the shuttering.  During the weekends
I travel a great deal on the highway.  Most of this traveling is done at
speeds in excess of 75mph.  However, once I reach 90mph the car feels
very unsafe.  It shutters!  So. . . I slow down and continue at a slower
speed.  Anyone know what this could be due to?  My car is an 87 4000cs
with 120,000 miles.  It has new shocks and struts.  Any ideas?

				Andrew

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I didn't see too much activity on this one, so I thought I'd add a few 
comments.  First and foremost ... if you are doing a lot of driving at or 
above 75 mph I hope that you are using VR or better rated tires.  HRs are 
rated for operation to 85, but I'd be concerned running them at 75+ for 
extended periods.

Things to look for when front end shudders at high speed:
1) Tire balance - A slight imbalance can be a big problem @ 90.  Look for 
   signs of unusual tire wear.
2) Check alignment & steering components for wear.  You say that you have 
   new struts/shocks.  Have a 4-wheel alignment done and have the steering 
   checked for worn parts (tie-rod ends, bushings, etc).
3) Check the steering damper if your car has one.
4) Check for loose bodywork in the front of the car that can be vibrating 
   (and possibly redirecting airflow)

Sometimes you can direct your troubleshooting by collecting as much info-
rmation about the problem as you can about the symptoms (like how much the 
shudder can be felt in the steering wheel, or if the effect seems to be 
more pronounced on one side of the car).  Since it is very easy to get in 
trouble at 90MPH with an unstable car I wouldn't recommend going out for 
a test drive ... try to recollect as much as you can.  

Steve Buchholz