What Next?

[CjMiller7]

So recently had some work done and new parts put on to resolve the DW I would get on every bump hit over 50mph. Shop I went to found that the drag link and tie rod were already having play and suspected ball joint issues also. All were replaced. Definitely no longer getting DW as frequently as before but there is still some slop and with hitting a bump at the right angle, I’m still getting death wobble.

Work done so far:
1. Steersmarts Adj Front Track bar (when a 2.5RK lift was put on with new LCA. The remainder of the control arms are stock)
2. RPM 2.5ton Steering (Tie Rod and Drag Link)
3. Synergy Ball Joints
4. Alignment done
5. Tires Rebalanced.
6. It’s a 22MY so does have the upgraded steering box, not the TSB aluminum one.

All paint marks are still lined up so no movement detected thus far. I feel like I have run through 99% of the issues and yet it’s still sloppy over bumps and occasionally getting DW.

Last thing I want to do is make another DW post but I’m kinda at a lost here on what else could be the issue and it’s resolution.

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[The Last Cowboy]

Your shocks and steering stabilizer had a lot of wear and tear put on them, even if they were new when the death wobble started.

 

[CjMiller7]

Your shocks and steering stabilizer had a lot of wear and tear put on them, even if they were new when the death wobble started.

Shocks were replaced roughly 10K miles ago. I’ve checked all and no signs on leaks/blown seals. Stabilizer is still stock and one in consideration of being replaced, just didn’t think that would induce it. And would like to eliminate everything so that’s a new stabilizer doesn’t just cover up the issue. Thanks for the info!

 

[kah.mun.rah]

Contrary to what some people will say, a bad steering stabilizer can be the root cause.

 

[CjMiller7]

Are you still using the stock steering stabilizer?

The one and only thing that is stock with the steering. That’s always just mentioned as a band-aid so was going through all options before that

 

[kah.mun.rah]

The one and only thing that is stock with the steering. That’s always just mentioned as a band-aid so was going through all options before that

I had a version of DW on my 2018 and on my 2021 and both were traced back to defective stabilizers. When replaced, the DW went away and has never returned.

 

[CjMiller7]

I had a version of DW on my 2018 and on my 2021 and both were traced back to defective stabilizers. When replaced, the DW went away and has never returned.

interesting. Will definitely keep that in mind. Much appreciated!

 

[kah.mun.rah]

interesting. Will definitely keep that in mind. Much appreciated!

If you are worried about a new stabilizer hiding a different issue, find a JL friend with a stock stabilizer and swap with them for a week. If your issue goes away and they start to have the issue, you can pretty much pin it on the stabilizer.

 

[autotragic]

If the last thing you haven't replaced is the stabilizer...replace the stabilizer.

 

[Brad Hearing]

If you dont mind my asking how easy is it to recover from a DW?

Im new to jeep and to my mind im baffled why its even a thing

 

[CjMiller7]

If you dont mind my asking how easy is it to recover from a DW?

Im new to jeep and to my mind im baffled why its even a thing

For as many pros there are to the off-road capabilities of a solid axle, some cons have to follow. Since everything is connected in terms of the front end/steering system, death wobble is usually caused by a worn out part not doing its job in stabilizing the front axle or tires when hitting a bump and causing to essentially freak out. Worn out track bar, drag link, tie rod or ball joints or some combination of those are common culprits but not the only things than can cause it. Unfortunately, there are a variety of reasons so having a good shop narrow it down is key. At least this is my understanding of it, I’m no expert myself.

As far as recovery, it’s pretty simple...slow down. For me, it always occurred after hitting a bump going over 50mph. So at times slowing down to around 30mph would allow for it to stabilize back out and other times it’s coming to a complete stop on the shoulder. There is no mistaking it. When it happens to you (though hopefully it doesn’t), the entire vehicle will violently shake and feel like it wants to fall apart.

Hope this helps you a little!

 

[Brad Hearing]

thanks for that. as a follow up when it does happen is it such that your jeep might force itself into incoming traffic or the ditch? or is it more just a bad wobble that you have to keep your hands on the wheel for?

 

[CjMiller7]

thanks for that. as a follow up when it does happen is it such that your jeep might force itself into incoming traffic or the ditch? or is it more just a bad wobble that you have to keep your hands on the wheel for?

For as much wobble as there is, you still have decent control. It will still drive straight and more so just a horrible wobble that you will instinctually put both hands on (if not already) and will be able to safely guide it to the edge. I suppose the one "good" part is other drivers will see it happening and will move out of the way for you cause it freaks them out as well so I've found it pretty quick and easy to get to an edge.

 

[SmokeyJoe101]

So recently had some work done and new parts put on to resolve the DW I would get on every bump hit over 50mph. Shop I went to found that the drag link and tie rod were already having play and suspected ball joint issues also. All were replaced. Definitely no longer getting DW as frequently as before but there is still some slop and with hitting a bump at the right angle, I’m still getting death wobble.

Work done so far:
1. Steersmarts Adj Front Track bar (when a 2.5RK lift was put on with new LCA. The remainder of the control arms are stock)
2. RPM 2.5ton Steering (Tie Rod and Drag Link)
3. Synergy Ball Joints
4. Alignment done
5. Tires Rebalanced.
6. It’s a 22MY so does have the upgraded steering box, not the TSB aluminum one.

All paint marks are still lined up so no movement detected thus far. I feel like I have run through 99% of the issues and yet it’s still sloppy over bumps and occasionally getting DW.

Last thing I want to do is make another DW post but I’m kinda at a lost here on what else could be the issue and it’s resolution.

I would call Steer Smarts and walk them through what you have done

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