Vibrations at 65+ mph - 2003 Tahoe

[91RS]

I would just take out the drive shafts and feel if one has more resistance to it than the rest. If the problem is a u-joint, it's probably only one.

 

[DenaliAK]

Where's the vibration coming from? Front, back, left, right? Can you tell? Usually with off-balance tires you can at least narrow it down to front or back. Has anyone checked your brakes? Warped rotors? Hubs?

 

[DMSchuler]

I did the rear brakes around 5K miles ago. Definitely not warped rotors - I know that feeling

Just got the rear drive shaft out. Definitely the rear u-joint. I'll post a video of it once I'm done. Really don't know how I missed it - no movement at all unless I use excessive force. Also has a very slight amount of play - barely perceptible unless I hold the yoke firmly as I move the drive shaft.

 

[91RS]

It doesn't take much. Glad you got it figured out. Even though the tie-rods and tires weren't THE problem, at least they weren't a waste of money. Now you should have a very good riding and driving safe truck.

 

[DMSchuler]

Just got back from a long vibration free ride! Between the tires, tie rods, and u-joint, it is is incredibly smooth. Acceleration and shifting seem smoother too.

I figured I'd spare everyone the video, but here is a pic of what I found in the one cap on the bad u-joint. Amazing the thing even moved...

Many thanks to everyone on the thread for your input - much appreciated!

 

[CEN2MENTAL95]

glad you got it figured out and you didn't have to throw too much money at it....and all those parts probably needed replacement anyway

 

[Justin Jacobson]

Trying not to revive a dead horse but after reading all the posts I'm leaning towards a bad u-joint. I just purchased a 2002 Tahoe LS. It was purchased from someone who had just recently bought it from a guy that I knew very well. It had 22" wheels on it but the guy who I bought it from didn't like them and bought 2017 Tahoe wheels and brand new Michelin tires. (As seen in my profile pic). I had it balanced but not road force balanced. I'm gonna try that but I'm kinda leaning towards it being a u-joint. I guess I'll update you all when I get that done first.

 

[bgtyme70]

I did the rear brakes around 5K miles ago. Definitely not warped rotors - I know that feeling

Just got the rear drive shaft out. Definitely the rear u-joint. I'll post a video of it once I'm done. Really don't know how I missed it - no movement at all unless I use excessive force. Also has a very slight amount of play - barely perceptible unless I hold the yoke firmly as I move the drive shaft.