Random Vibration around 45-55

[dec322]

Loving the new forum!

I just bought an 01 yukon xl with 96k on it and my family is loving it. There are a few small issues, one of which is a vibration/hesitation that sometimes happens between 45-55 mph. Usually it happens while I am trying to cruise at the speed or during a very slow acceleration. I can push the pedal down and it speeds up with no problems.

Any ideas?

[DarkTahoe00]

I just had a problem like as well and ended up being a U-Joint so I would start there!

[Sepiroth]

I would also type u-joint.

It could also be a wheel out of balance.

A little trick I learned.
If you feel the vibration in the steering wheel, a lot of the time the problem resides in the front.

If you feel the vibration in the seat, the problem is most likely towards the rear of the vehicle.

[blueflamed03]

U joint
dent in driveshaft
tire out of balance

[dec322]

Thanks fellas. I can't remember where I feel it (my wife drives it more than me) but I do know that one of the tires has inside wear.

I'll look into the U-joint. I've never messed with one. How hard is a replacement for someone that is mechanically inclined.

[Sepiroth]

For someone mechanically inclined, it shouldnt be that hard. If you live in a climate prone to rust, be ready to have some work cut out for yourself.

[dec322]

Rust shouldn't be an issue. I'm going to pick up a Haynes manual for the truck to give me an idea of what I'm doing and we'll get it knocked out.

[mdtahoe]

Is it a vibration or a hesitation, they are 2 different things. If it is a vibration it could be any of the above things. If it is a hesitation it can not be any of the above. When it is doing it put the truck in neutral, see if it goes away. Also turn the engine off in gear while it is doing it. You can easily check the u-joints by unbolting the drive shaft and swivel the joints the should move smoothly without any binding.

[DarkTahoe00]

Post back lets us know whacha find out!

[dec322]

I'm not sure what it is. I will have to pay more attention next time I drive it....my wife is the one that drives it. It is quick so I miss it when it happens.

Lets talk about U-Joints. One on each end of the driveshaft? Side note/question....do they make aluminum driveshafts for these beasts? Whould it even be feasible with something that weighs this much?

[DarkTahoe00]

As far as the U-Joints,yes there are two of them, one at each end. As far as a aluminum ones I imagine they do I think if not you probably could have one made. I'll check on that a little more and see what I can find I know they make carbon fiber ones now!

[scorpio]

I had a vibration on my truck it was my tires as far as the drive shaft goes i dont think its necessary imo. GL

[denalianyone]

Has anyone here install a steering stabilizer and how well does it function?