How Do I Fix Death Shake on a Ford Truck?
by Allen MooreMany Ford F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550s built between the 1987 and 2004 model years can experience a harmonic vibration in the front suspension when hitting large bumps at higher speeds. The vibration, commonly called the “death shake” or “death wobble,” creates an unnerving experience for the driver and only fades away if you stop the truck. Thankfully, Ford Motor Company found a solution to this problem during the 1990s, but it requires diligence on the owner’s part to hold death at bay.
Step 1
Sit down in front of the truck with your socket set and unbolt the old stabilizer shock from its left and right mounts using your socket set.
Step 2
Remove the old shock by hand and discard it.
Set the new shock in position and bolt it in place with your socket set.
References
- "Ford Super Duty F-250 & F-350 Pick-ups and Excursion 1999 thru 2006 (Haynes Repair Manual);" Ken Freund; 2006
Tips
- The stabilizer shock is there to dampen harmonic vibrations in the front suspension. Unfortunately, due to its positioning, it’s easy prey for bumps and road debris and incurs damage easily. Inspect your shock for signs of fluid loss frequently and replace it whenever you notice damage or loss of hydraulic fluid. Without a fully functioning stabilizer shock, your Ford truck will experience the death shake with you behind the wheel.
Things You'll Need
- Socket set
- New stabilizer shock
Writer Bio
Allen Moore's career includes awards in poetry and creative fiction, published lyrics, fiction books and nonfiction articles as well as a master certification in automotive service from the Ford Motor Company. Moore is a contributing writer for RF365.com and various other websites, a ghostwriter for Rainbow Writing and has over a dozen works of fiction currently in print.