99 dodge caravan

1999 DODGE CARAVAN
165,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
BRSCHALK0929
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
my 99' dodge caravan shakes violently, i jacked the van up and grabbed the tire at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock and there is play, at 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock there is no play. i know that tie rods are a possibility. My question is how can i determine if it is the tie rods or what else could it be.
Dec 8, 2010 at 5:42 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,309 POSTS
Run it in gear with both front wheels jacked up and watch the tires to see if they are true or have a noticeable hump or a sideways wobble in the tread. That would be a broken belt and it CAN knock your dentures out if it's bad enough! Tie rod ends will cause tire wear, a little hard-to-hear clunking, but not shaking. A broken tire belt will cause a huge increase in the hammering action on the worn ball and sockets of the tie rod ends causing them to get sloppier real fast.

caradiodoc
Dec 8, 2010 at 5:57 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.