I have a 1988 Jeep Comanche, 4.0L, 4X4 with 5 speed manual transmission. It was my father's truck and he passed it onto me in 1991. It has developed a strange safety issue. When driving at near, and highway speeds (50 -65mph) if I hit a bump in the road (it can be as small as a poor joint in the concrete) sometimes my truck will begin to shudder violently from side to side. The shudder is so violent that I fear I might lose steering control of the truck. If I brake hard sometimes the shudder will stop, if I brake less than hard the shudder seems to continue until lower speeds (less than 45mph). I've taken it to my mechanic and he is scratching his head. He is suggesting I replace the upper and lower ball joints on both front wheels. His theory is that there is play on the right front tire joints, and that it could be being transmitted to the left side.
Doing my own research, I wonder if it isn't the track bar, aka Panhard Rod, or Panhard bar. Does anyone have any experience, ideas, or advice about my situation? Also, I would appreciate it any members could provide an exploded parts diagram for this area.
Thanks.
Below is the exact VIN # and decoded info:
You searched for VIN : 1JTML65P6JT243585
This vehicle's data: Country of Manufacture United States Manufacturer Jeep Corporation Vehicle Type Truck Engine 4.0L, I-6, MPI Powertrain 5-speed manual, floor gear shift, part time 4 W/D Body Type Jeep Comanche, 4-W/D Pickup, 7.0 foot bed, 120 inch wheel base Gross Vehicle Weight Comanche Pioneer = 4001 - 5000 lbs / J-20 Truck = 5001 - 6000 lbs Assembly Plant Toledo, Ohio, USA Model Year 1988