4 Wheel Drive/SUVs: Chevy Z-71 4X4, alignment shop, 4x4 offroad

Question
Hi Carl
I have a Chevy Z-71 4x4 offroad and the tires are still almost new. Late last week taking a small curve left or right the stearing wheel gives about 1 to 3 inches all of a sudden. What is causing this?
Thank you Carl
Jim in Missouri

Answer
Jim,

 It sounds like you may have a front wheel bearing, front axle bearing, or steering component going bad.

Check all of your steering components right away.  Have someone turn the steering wheel back and forth while sitting still.  While they are doing this get in front of the vehicle and watch all of the steering components.  Look for anything that may be worn, or moving more than normal, such as any bushings on the tie rod, or drag link.  You may, even have some bolts working loose on the steering box.  I have seen frames cracked where the steering box is mounted which can cause this.

If you can't find something obvious, I would get the Z-71 into a reputable front end alignment shop as soon as possible.

Carl