QuestionI have a 94 Chevy 3500 4X4 with 75,000 miles on it. Recently it seems when making turns at slow speeds or from take off my front end wants to chatter as if it is in low range 4 wheel drive. Any thoughts on what it could be? And can I fix it myself?
AnswerIt is likely that you have a constant velocity (CV) joint that has torn a boot, and let the grease escape, or is going bad out at one of your front wheels. You may also have a bad wheel bearing, and these can only be replaced on your vehicle (they are sealed and lubed for life parts).
To verify, examine the rubber boots on both front axle shafts. Copy and paste this URL into your browser to see what one of the shafts look like: http://www.rockauto.com/ref/Cardone/Detail.html?601019.jpg Look for a tear or slit in the boots. If you find one, or more, boots that have failed, the grease has been slung out of the CV and it is running without lube.
If the problem is recent, a grease repack and new boot may cure the problem. If the CV has run for some time without grease, it will have gone bad and need to be replaced.
You can buy just a boot kit, a CV with boot kit, or a rebuilt axle shaft (or find one at a salvage yard). Removing and replacing the axle shaft, which is required to perform any work on the shaft, requires a special socket to loosen the nut at each wheel. Boots require special pliers to clamp them in place. CV removal and replacement requires snap ring pliers.
If you are a backyard mechanic, the job isn't too bad. If you have limited experience, the job is best left to a competent shop. The wheel bearing replacement may require a TORX or Allen bit set for removal and replacement.
