King pins on my Econoline

[Spirituallifetime]

How do the front tires look? Wear on the front tires is a good indicator of front end problems. If the tires are wearing unevenly then there are worn parts on the front end, and need to be replaced so you don't buy front tires more often than you need to. Front end problems cause the tires to wear out fast and that gets expensive.

 

[decodancer]

The front tires were replaced last year (needed tires when I bought it) and still look good. My issue with tires is cutting corners too close and damaging the sidewalls. I'm always hitting curbs. It's a van thing I guess.

 

[WheelEstate USA]

Making a turn in town, I go forward till my left front bumper swings almost of the centerline as I round the corner...otherwise I'll jump the curb with my right rears.
Its more of a 90 than a sweeping motion.
You paid to use the whole lane on your side, so use it

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That's....bumper swings almost OVER the centerline.

`

 

[Zil]

I am always hitting the curb when turning a intersection.
Problems with your front end, steering or suspension, can not be diagnosed from a photo or description. The "Old Guy" can physically inspect and advise you of the problems and suggest a plan of action to make the needed repairs, or no action needed. if your ball-joints are worn most likely it was from lack of lubrication. Have the other lube points been neglected? How about the rubber bushings that are used instead of lubricated joints?
I'm not trying to frighten you but want to advise you to visit a competent mechanic (not the tire man) and have your suspension evaluated. It would be worth a few bucks for the inspection.
You are wearing your tires, you are getting much poorer gas mileage. Down the road the repair will be an emergency.

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I went back to look at your photos. Your ride will improve if you replace the sway bar bushings. Not expensive. Get the "Old Guy" to do that work and while there he can tell you the rest of the story.

 

[decodancer]

Thanks so much for the reply Zil. I'm grooming next week so will have some extra cash to get started on the needed repairs. Sway bar bushings is on my list. I do notice a little vibration in the wheel when I accelerate. Never paid much attention to it but with all this talk about suspension, I wonder if it's related.

 

[WheelEstate USA]

A slight vibration in the wheel when you accelerate most likely comes from somewhere else, if the van cruises smooth normally.
You might be feeling U joint wear translating thru old tranny/engine/front end mounts. Even a slight miss in the engine can be felt under your touch on the wheel.

Grip the top of the steering wheel at 12 o'clock on the highway at cruising speed. Stick up your finger and watch for vibration. If any, your finger will wiggle and you can blame most of it on either steering/shocks/tires, or a combo of any/all. Step on the gas and see what happens. Coast and check that too.