Odd steering issue: Google-fu isn't helping

[Fuelslt1]

2003 Escalade AWD 6.0L 215k

My steering wheel will pull itself to the right (1/4 turn) when accelerating and recenter itself after reaching cruising speed or hitting a large bump.

During this time the truck continues to track straight.

This isn't torque steer as the truck does not pull to the right, only the steering wheel does.

Accelerating: Wheel is turned


Cruising: Wheel is straight


WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!?


3" front, 2" rear leveling kit (Installed 6 months ago)
New 33" BFG A/T's (Installed 6 months ago)
Recent alignment
Ball joints good
Steering position sensor unplugged, not a traction control/stability control issue (assuming)

 

[Fuelslt1]

Tightened the steering box by 1/4 turn, that didn't help.

 

[sumo]

I see that you have a few mods. Let's start with tire pressure. Is the right side lower than the left? This could create unwanted rolling resistance.

Secondly, how is your tread? Is the right side lower than the left by chance? Awd is finniky when it comes to uneven tires. Think of it like this. If you have a wagon that has lower tread on the right but you have a motor that tries to drive all the wheels at the same time, torque is going to go to the larger tire and make it want to steer towards the smaller tire.

Lastly the tires themselves could be causing the pull, though I tend to believe if it is a tire causing the pull, it would be pulling to the right constantly.
Try rotating front tires left and right. Does it still happen?

If so the angles of the drive shafts could be also contributing to the pull. Same theory as the smaller tire but in this case the shorter drive shaft.

 

[ccapehartusarmyINF.(ret)]

need to check and see if you have excessive toe in or toe out
usually with awd or front wheel drive comes from the factory with a little toe out \ / to compensate for torque steer and what not
but if its turning the wheel a quarter turn yer toe alighnment is way out

 

[Fuelslt1]

I found the culprit. The tech that did my alignment recently forgot to tighten the upper A-arm bolts...on both sides.

 

[sumo]

Holy crap! I hope they took care of you for that

 

[dubyagee01]

Tread Quarters in Summerville SC did the exact same thing to mine.