Vibration in 2003 Ram 1500 2WD

From : gary

Q: does anyone know the approved daimler-chrysler procedure for checking free play in 4x4 front axle ball joints. my 2001 ram 3500 dana 60 front axle has vibration and the factory service manual does not include a diagnostic procedure for the solid-axle 4x4 ball joints. the manual does have the procedure for 2wd models but this would not apply to the 4wd front axle. ive used my jack below the axle and a pry bar underneath the tire to show about 1/10 to 1/8 inch free play in the ball joints both upper and lower joints moving together. my dealer service department has checked and refused to replace ball joints under warranty coverage. their explanation is that the ball joints must be checked with weight on the wheels - supposedly with their procedure being the manufacturer required diagnostic check. i cant figure out what their actual procedure is; but arguing with them only gets the explanation that free play i noticed would not contribute to vibration because the weight is on the wheels and this would not be a problem when driving. how silly is that ive always checked ball joints thinking that any play indicated wear. an inquiry to dc regarding the diagnostic procedure was initially answered with the statement we cannot furnish this information.... all technical information can be found in the service manual.... you can get further information at your dealer etc etc. when i pressed the issue they stated we do not furnish technical information to our customers. i replied once more letting them know im a purchaser of their technical service manual and while they would certainly sell the manual its amazing they will refuse to clarify something that was obviously omitted. certainly im dissatisfied with that inquiry but dont expect anything to come from further attempts via dc. in any case im about to argue with the dealer and would like to have some verifiable diagnostics to back up my fight. anyone know where this procedure can be found thanks john sellers .

Replies:

From : nitpik

on thu 09 dec 2004 123752 gmt roy roy@home.net wrote i cant imagine the original poster going from 16 to 15 rims and ending up with the same tire diameter... bro when i was looking for blizzaks for the lightning to replace the 295/45zr 18 street tires i had to go with a 235/70r 16. that is 2 inches different in rim size but the hieght of the tire and rim is about 1/2 inch taller overall. the 18 tires are real low profile where the 16s have a large or taller side wall where the difference is made up. roy oh i understand that but the op was talking steel rims to save money so i dont think he was talking anything but stock or cheaper tires.. .