My Car has the shakes

[MarkCCU]

My '03 Explorer Sport has the shakes when I accelerate and am just humming alone. Usually once I get above 50. I've done some online research but I'm green when it comes to doing my own repairs ( I have done some.) What do you guys think?

I'm sure it's not any of the following:

1) Tires - new tires on the front, tires on the back aren't too old and have enough tread remaining and everything was balanced. The car could benefit from an alignment.

2) Brake Pads/Calipers - these are brand new, installed myself under the guidance of a buddy who is a mechanic ( but he works overseas so I can't really get to him for help)


I know the rotors looked good, but was made aware of a slight rusting on it that made it appear that they may be warped. But i'm not sure. I've researched how to change these and am positive I could easily accomplish it.


I bough the truck in January and have replaced the front and rear shocks as well as the control arms.

I appreciate any advice. Thanks!

 

[Harpua216]

this is a common problem and I have it too. From what i have seen there are a few reasons this happens. (AFTER you have checked tires for wear broken belts, etc, balance, rims for dents, alignment etc..)


1. wheel bearings
2. U-Joints
3. Control Arms (ball joints)
4. Lower Control Arms
5. tie-rod ends
6. sway bar links.

amongst a few others, but most people remedy this with one of these (or none as i have seen it, also)

Search the forum for information on the above and watch a few videos. I have to replace my upper control arms and am waiting for it to at least stop raining before i attempt it, bit i will report back with findings.

Good Luck!!

 

[swshawaii]

Wheels turned with the engine not running? If so, probably air in the power steering system. Very common when doing front end work with the front off the ground. To purge the air, slowly turn the wheel lock to lock repeatedly, or do figure eights rolling slowly in an empty parking lot. And yes, your vehicle would benefit greatly from at least an alignment check.

 

[MarkCCU]

Wheels turned with the engine not running? If so, probably air in the power steering system. Very common when doing front end work with the front off the ground. To purge the air, slowly turn the wheel lock to lock repeatedly, or do figure eights rolling slowly in an empty parking lot. And yes, your vehicle would benefit greatly from at least an alignment check.

Wheels turned? You mean did I park and not straighten out the tires? I do that sometimes. I'll try the figure 8s and the wheel lock. Thanks.

 

[swshawaii]

No. Meant turning the wheels with the engine OFF. Introduces air bubbles (aeration) in the fluid and cause shaking.

Start the engine and turn the wheel gently back and forth to the steering limit to bleed air. Go slowly and steadily.

 

[MarkCCU]

No. Meant turning the wheels with the engine OFF. Introduces air bubbles (aeration) in the fluid and cause shaking.

Start the engine and turn the wheel gently back and forth to the steering limit to bleed air. Go slowly and steadily.

I got ya. I'll give that a try. Thanks.