Tie Rod? Bad Tire?

[bigwhitesierra]

05 Sierra 2500 HD....34,000 miles

 

Noticed the ride seemed to be a bit rougher than normal (i know, its a truck). Its never ridden like a Cadillac, but seems to be "rougher" now than it was. The wife drove the truck the other night and even made mention of it when she got home.

 

Jacked up the front end tonight so take a look....im no mechanic by any means, but was looking for something obvious. Passenger side front tire seems to have more left to right play than i'd expect...driver side has none to speak of really. Doing some research came up with possible tie rod end gone bad? seem right? Checked to make sure lug nuts were tight and all are ok. It is in need of new tires, still trying to find what I want....bad tire causing it?

 

Going to call dealer in the a.m, but was just looking for some background before I did. Thanks for any info

[daddysLBZ]

Just put a new tire rod on,then go get it aligned at a nerby shop..Easy to do!!

[cammiller]

I would not just replace parts until you are certain they are bad. The tie rod you should be able to see if it is loose. Have your wife turn the steering wheel 4-5 inches back and forth quickly while you check the components. For the inner tie rods, I squish the boot to feel the joint. If your truck is still under warranty, get the dealer to look at it.

[bigwhitesierra]

Thats where Im at. Going to call dealer in the a.m. I was wrong on mileage....has 37,000. I did buy the extended warranty so hopefully im good on that aspect. Thanks for the replies!

 

I would not just replace parts until you are certain they are bad. The tie rod you should be able to see if it is loose. Have your wife turn the steering wheel 4-5 inches back and forth quickly while you check the components. For the inner tie rods, I squish the boot to feel the joint. If your truck is still under warranty, get the dealer to look at it.