Front end problem. Need help please.
01-09-2004, 11:45 AM
#1
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Front end problem. Need help please. Last week I hit a pretty large pot hole with my right front wheel. Ever since, my front end buckles when backing up with the steering wheel turned all the way to the right and left. It even does it when moving forward. This only happens at extremely slow speeds (parking maneuvers) and only when the wheel is turned all the way. The front wheels (think it's only on the right wheel) actually feel like they are jumping or skipping when this happens. You can actually feel it happen. When the car is cold, it happens even more. I feel it could be something wrong with the ball joint. I didn't actually look at it yet (too busy) but I plan on it tomorrow. If any of you have any experience witht this or know what could be wrong, I would appreciate your help.
Thanks.
Thanks.
01-09-2004, 12:20 PM
#2
When the wheel is straight the forces applied are fore and aft ...
When you turn, all of a sudden lateral forces are applied.
Based upon your account that it "buckles" (whatever that means) only when turning, I would suspect a blown lower A-arm bushing ... probably the front one.
I would also suspect the ball joint to be weakend and even the knuckle has been bent.
When whatever the problem is is replaced and you have it aligned, explain that you need them to check to see if the knuckle is in fact bent. It's a reading easily taken but rarely checked. Also check for hub damage.
Hubs are $150 from GM
Lower Ball joints are $30 from Moog and $50 to be pressed in
A-Arm bushings are $50 each (2 on the front and 2 on the back) and $50 to be installed
Knuckle is $140
So you could be looking at some serious cash for repairs, worst case scenario.
Or, it could be as simple as a bent sway bar end link ....
This is serious ... don't delay getting it checked and repaired.
When you turn, all of a sudden lateral forces are applied.
Based upon your account that it "buckles" (whatever that means) only when turning, I would suspect a blown lower A-arm bushing ... probably the front one.
I would also suspect the ball joint to be weakend and even the knuckle has been bent.
When whatever the problem is is replaced and you have it aligned, explain that you need them to check to see if the knuckle is in fact bent. It's a reading easily taken but rarely checked. Also check for hub damage.
Hubs are $150 from GM
Lower Ball joints are $30 from Moog and $50 to be pressed in
A-Arm bushings are $50 each (2 on the front and 2 on the back) and $50 to be installed
Knuckle is $140
So you could be looking at some serious cash for repairs, worst case scenario.
Or, it could be as simple as a bent sway bar end link ....
This is serious ... don't delay getting it checked and repaired.
