2004 Jeep Wrangler Front Suspension

2004 JEEP WRANGLER
54,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • MANUAL
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JEFF AYALA
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I have a 2004 Jeep Wrangler that has a noticable shake that begins around 40 MPH and progressively worsening at higher speeds. I have new brakes/pads/rotors/drums all away around. New tires that are balanced and no bent rims. I've inspected the front end and have no visible defects or abnormal tire wear. Can you help advise which component/s may be the most likely problem? Also, I don't have any aftermarket lift kit and am running slightly larger than factory spec BF Goodrich all terrain TA tires.
Nov 28, 2008 at 12:01 PM
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JAMES W.
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My first thought is, you have a front tire out of round or possible cord seperation. You can check by moving your front tires to the rear and vise/versa, and see if the shake follows or goes away. I have brand new tires off the shelf go bad in a couple weeks causing your same problem. Let us know.
Nov 28, 2008 at 12:20 PM
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JEFF AYALA
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This problem was present before replacing my tires a few months ago so it is probably another component.
Nov 28, 2008 at 5:10 PM
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JAMES W.
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OK, that pretty much rules out tires. Next stop is a bad outboard drive axle joint or a joint on the forward shaft. 40 to 45 mph is usually when a bad drive shaft joint will show up. Also, are the front shocks good?
Nov 28, 2008 at 8:08 PM
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MECHCURT
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Dont mean to cut in on the last tech. Check to ensure that the bushings in the front tracking bar are good and all is tight and also make sure the steering dampner shock is working correctly and its bushings are tight. Let us know if this helps thanks Curt
Dec 1, 2008 at 10:07 PM