Vibration at 45-55mph

[mball19]

I bought an 03 ST (2wd, 151k miles) about a month ago and it has a vibration from 45-55 mph. The vibration is in the body and not so much in the steering wheel. I have installed new front tires and shocks and the vibration remains. I jacked up the front wheels to check the ball joints and there is some play when I pull on the wheels at 12 and 6 o'clock but, I don't see an movements in the balljoints or spindle. There was no movement when I pulled at 3 and 9 o'clock. I think that my wheel bearings may be shot. Does anyone else think it may be the wheel bearings?

 

[ncranchero]

I'd think if it was front wheel bearings you'd feel vibes in the steering wheel. I'd be thinking driveline/U-joints or rear wheel/tire/axle issue.

 

[mball19]

There is definitely movement in the front wheels. A guy I work with who used to be a Ford tech said that it sounds like bearings. He suggested that I retorque the nut before I replace the bearings. I will retorque it this weekend and see if the problem is fixed.

 

[mball19]

I retorqued the bearings (17 ft-lbs) and the movement in the front wheels is gone. However, the vibration remains. I will take a look at the driveline and rear axle per suggestion.