1989 Dodge Dakota Shakes over 35mph

1989 DODGE DAKOTA
11,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MAKK
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My truck shakes and shimmies like I was running over the meridian bumps in the road when accelerating at any speed over 25-30 miles per hour.

I have changed spark plugs and wires (one of the plugs looked like it wasn't working), replaced the distributor cap, replaced the oil and fuel filters, and added Heet to the gas tank even though this has been a problem for a while. There's definately an overall improvement in the truck's performance after all of this, but the shimmying is still there
Jan 4, 2009 at 6:44 PM
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MHPAUTOS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
Hi there,

This my be a tyre problem, get the tyres inspected for distortion and get a balance done as well, make sure the front end and steering is all sound as well.

mark (mhpautos)
Jan 4, 2009 at 8:14 PM
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MAKK
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[quote:d93b73fb59="mhpautos"]Hi there,

This my be a tyre problem, get the tyres inspected for distortion and get a balance done as well, make sure the front end and steering is all sound as well.

mark (mhpautos)[/quote:d93b73fb59]

Thanks. I'll try to get this done his week, then let you know how it went.

Thanks for the quick response!
Jan 5, 2009 at 5:30 AM
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MAKK
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Actually thinking about it, I'm not sure if it would be a tire problem, as it only shakes when accelerating.

Should I still bring it in to have a balance done and have the frond end and steering looked into?
Jan 8, 2009 at 5:12 PM
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MHPAUTOS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
Hi there,

I would get the steering & suspension checked as with what you are saying about the shimmy being there when accelerating this would be more in line with a steering or suspension issue, a balance e wont hurt so get that done as well.

mark (mhpautos)
Jan 9, 2009 at 1:58 AM
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MAKK
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Just thought I'd send a very delayed thank-you for the advice about my truck.

It turned out the problem was that one of the ball joints was completely shot and another was well on it's way.

Found a great guy to fix it though, and got the problem diagnosed and fixed for under $150 including parts. If I had money right now, I'd definately send a donation your way for the quick and free advice!

Thanks!
Jul 2, 2009 at 9:34 PM
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