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F-350 Front end shudder

I have a 2002 F-350 Super Duty Powerstroke 4x4. This past month I have started to notice a shudder from the front-end when turning either left or right at slow speeds, like turning a corner. It almost feels like the front hubs are locked in. It didn't do it all the time, but it appears that it is started to get worse or happen more often. The truck is basically stock with the exception of a front-end leveling kit and running 315 BFG all terrain tires. Truck has 47,000 miles.

Any ideas of what to look for ?

Thanks in advance Rick

Reply to
Rick Strong
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Does it have "auto locking hubs" If so, sounds like they are not unlocking...

Reply to
351CJ

A common problem with the auto-locking hubs. You might have one locked and one unlocked. With the truck in 2wd, grab the U-joint at each steering knuckle and try to turn it. If it is unlocked, it will rotate easily. If it is locked, it won't rotate at all.

Reply to
Matt Macchiarolo

Yes it does have the ESOF hubs. I tried turning the U-joints and they turned fine. It seems to be an intermittent problem and shows up after driving a long distance and then seems to go away until my next trip. Is there anyway to disable the ESOF and just use the hubs manually when I need to ?

Thanks Rick

Reply to
Rick Strong

Even if the hubs are locked, if the transfer case is not locked in then there should not be any shudder as no binding should occur.

Reply to
Rob Munach

In theory you are right, but these front ends do bind a bit when the wheels are cut sharp on hard (paved) surfaces, and an auto hub is hung up. Seems to be the nature of the beast. I have experienced this numerous times with my truck as my auto hubs hang up frequently.

Matt

99 V-10 Super Duty, Super Cab 4x4
Reply to
Matt Mead

Rob, what you say is true. However, If a hub is locked you will notice some noise and clunking (pardon the expression) when turned lock to lock. I noticed that when my manual hubs were accidentally locked by mistake.

Reply to
Mellowed

Does it use U-joints at the end of the axles instead of CV joints? I coud see it binding a bit then.

Reply to
Rob Munach

Ford trucks don't use CV joints...

Reply to
351CJ

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