front suspension noises

[flatfoot]

I have a '99 with 180,000. Last year replaced front ball joints. I have two questions: first-
When I turn the wheel to the left or go over a uneven surface (like turning into my drive) I get a thump from under the left side(cannot feel it thru the steering wheel). Its like when the body gets a little twisted. I have looked under the truck to see for a "rub" on the frame or suspension but cannot see anything.

Secondly: The front end seems "sloppy" and "loose when driving over a rough paved surface. Its like the ball joints are gone. Its gotta be a bushing, or a joint where wear has made the joint loose, but where. I want it tight!!!

Thanks

 

[Jounier11]

probably a few suspension parts like pit man idler arms, maybe ball joints again because you didn't fix the pit man arms i'd go to a shop and get inspected to make sure you know exactly what needs replacing mine has 200k on it and i have a lot of suspension stuff that need replacing shop wants 1,100k for replacing all the parts so u may have a small money pit!!

 

[Jounier11]

go here for tips guy had almost the same problem: http://tahoeforum.com/showthread.php?t=525728

 

[lesterl]

As far as sloppy steering, I just helped mine alot by changing out the rag joint. Take a prybar and pry around on the joints and pitman/ idler arm, look for movement, or you could have someone sit inside and turn the wheels back and forth, look up under front end while doing this and watch for movement in an improper direction.

 

[Grebbler]

For mysterious thuds pulling into driveway check torsion bar cross member. Just grab a bar near the x-member and give it a good shake. Check both.