Front end shake or shimmy

tommy g wrote:

wolfe10 wrote:

tommy g wrote:

wolfe10 wrote:
On the older F53's there was no track bar/panhard rod as fit on newer F53 chassis.

This allows wobble between axle and chassis (side to side motion). Particularly if hitting a transverse bump, like RV tracks at an angle to coach direction, it could cause what was known as "death wobble". If encountered, must slow down until harmonic wobble quits.

Yes, it can be loose wheel bearing, out of round or balance tire, bent rim, worn steering component, etc, but if the basics checkout, add a track bar.

Would this wobble be consistent? Mine does it every time at same speed.

No. If consistent at speed, start with the tires.
The tires have all been replaced and changed around. I figured that if one or two were the cause then the symptom would at least change somewhat. No change was obvious.
Check for run-out first (any good tire store will have a run-out gauge. Takes less than 2 minutes per tire. Check both fronts. Even a perfectly balanced "egg" will wobble. If more than .035" fix it (rotate tire on wheel, wheel on hub, etc).

You can even check run-out yourself. Jack up a front wheel. Use a 4x4" or other piece of wood. Move it closer and closer to the tire until it just touches the tire at the tire's "high point". Rotate for maximum gap and measure it. Not as precise as a run-out gauge, but you will get close.

Next, spin balance the tire ON THE COACH. You want all rotating masses in balance, not just the wheel and tire. The brake rotor and hub also must considered so on the rig does that.

The drive tires and the front tires are all new and have been rotated amongst each other. I figured that some change should be evident if it were a tire. Good suggestion on the speed balance. The only place to do that around me is over 100mi away but I may have to go see.