Severe wobble after replacing rear shock

Tiny
SHELBIE KADIVA
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
  • 4.7L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 250,000 MILES
Replaced right rear shock, death wobble appeared.
Friday, June 26th, 2020 AT 9:05 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

There are many different things that can cause what is known as "Death Wobble." What I have done is attach two pics. The first one is related to the front suspension. I highlighted things that will need inspected to make sure they are tight and don't have excessive play.

Pic 2 is of the steering linkage components. The same needs done here.

You will need to safely lift the front of the vehicle off the ground. To check steering linkage, place your hands at 3 and 9 o'clock and try to wiggle back and forth. If you feel a knocking or the wheel moves without the other wheel following it, have a helper watch under the vehicle to identify where the movement is coming from. Pay close attention to the steering damper and drag link. Also, make sure the damper (looks like a shock) isn't leaking or loose.

As far as the suspension parts, take something to use as a pry bar and check for movement in the items I highlighted.

Let me know what you find and if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Friday, June 26th, 2020 AT 9:21 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi, Shelbie,

I think I explained what to check for what is called, Death Wobble. As far as the right rear shock, I'm not sure what you mean. Also, shocks should be replaced in pairs. Is this a different type of question dealing with shocks?

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, June 27th, 2020 AT 11:22 AM (Merged)
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 13,464 POSTS
The joys of owning a Jeep. The most common cause of death wobble in the Cherokee's is worn front suspension parts. Namely the bushings in the suspension and the track bar as well as the steering stabilizer being worn out. The wear allows the parts to move around and the vehicle steers itself. I also never replace a single shock as it can aggravate any wear in components due to it now having different damping on one corner while the other side is worn out. I have installed new poly bushings in a few Jeeps and added dual steering stabilizers and cured the wobble. There are a few places that sell kits that have all the parts, Kevin's off road is one that I have used that includes some upgraded bushings and parts.
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Saturday, June 27th, 2020 AT 11:23 AM (Merged)

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