E350 Vibration

On Sat, 25 Oct 2003 05:30:06 +0000, WJW rearranged some electrons to form:

U-joints

. . E350 Vibration Group: alt.trucks.ford Date: Sat, Oct 25, 2003, 5:30am (CST+6) From: snipped-for-privacy@adelphia.net (WJW) REFERENCE: 1990 E350 Tioga RV with Ford 460 FI & Auto.

When I accelerate, I'm getting an annoying vibration that I can feel at the steering wheel but it goes away when I back-off the accelerator or coast. The vehicle steers straight so I don't think its a balance or alignment problem. Any ideas on what the problem may be or what I should check-out? Thanks WJW ================ ================

I woudn't focus too much on the u-joints, as others have suggested.

That is.........if you are definately feeling it in the steering wheel ...meaning the steering wheel is vibrating.

I would suggest a quick look at the steering linkage while someone wiggles the steering wheel back and forth ...with the engine off. Engine off gives better results, being as the power assist is disabled. Fords ball and socket type linkage joints are well renown for failure, and the symptoms you described are exactly what is expected on loose tie rods or drag links.

"IF"....the steering wheel isn't vibrating during the acceleration......do a repost with some better detail on the symptom and we'll try again.

good luck, and let us know.

marshmonster ~:~

I removed the entire driveline assembly and took it in and had three new u-joints and a center bearing installed. I also had it checked for balancing but they said "no need". Upon reinstallation, all of the vibrations have disappeared and the vehicle now runs smoothly. By the way, removing/installing the entire driveline assembly was a piece of cake and only took about 10 minutes on each process. Just thought I'd follow-up. Thanks for all the input!

WJW