Play in the front wheels

GMUSS4

MEMBER
FORD EXPLORER

2001 Ford Explorer Sport, 105,000 miles, 4.0 6 cyl. 4WD.

I have the sploder up on a lift, I grab the front left tire at 9&3 oclock and it moves back and forth about a half inch. There is no movement at 12&6 oclock. I replaced the hub assembly and it still does it. Any ideas what it could be? Any help provided is greatly appreciated.

5 Replies

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

What shape is the outer tie rod end in? Look there.

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Saturday, November 24th, 2007 AT 4:17 PM

GMUSS4

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3 POSTS

I looked at the outer tie rod, it is solid not bent or loose. I did notice while moving the tire back and forth that the right side moves also. Replace it anyway? It is stock.

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Saturday, November 24th, 2007 AT 5:50 PM

MERLIN2021

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17,250 POSTS

Don't replace it if it doesnt have any play. Do you believe this to be a wheel bearing issue? Because it would have play no matter what position your hands are when you test.

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Saturday, November 24th, 2007 AT 6:01 PM

GMUSS4

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3 POSTS

No the play only happens at 3 & 9. My buddy suggested a problem with the rack and pinion?

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Saturday, November 24th, 2007 AT 7:46 PM

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

It could be, but you should be able to hear the inner tie rod when going over bumps! Will sound like coffee brewing. And you sould be able to put your hand on the tie rod shaft, 9-3 the wheel and you can feel the snapping.