Fast, rugged and flashy, hot rods have been burning rubber for generations. But these fast cars are prone to a dangerous phenomenon known as the "death wobble." This is the rapid vibration and oscillation of the front of the car when it hits a bump or obstacle at approximately 50 mph. Death wobbles can cause serious harm to the car -- and can even result in fatal crashes. The best protection against the death wobble is to inspect your automobile in a thorough and timely manner.
Instructions
- 1
Lift the hood and inspect for at least 15 minutes, focusing on the steering components. Keep an eye out for metal components that appear loose or out of place. Repeat the inspection from beneath the front end. Check every bolt and joint for tightness and condition.
2Inspect the track bar. Track bars are prone to come loose and are one of the main culprits of the death wobble.
3Check your tires for proper inflation. Over-inflated tires are also a cause of the death wobble. Stock tires should have about 30 PSI; bigger tires should have less.
4Check the hub bearings. If they appear worn, rusty or have slop on them, replace them immediately.
5Look over the ball joints, track bar mounting bolts and steering bolts. Loose or worn-out components are possible culprits and should be replaced.
6Replace the steering stabilizer with a newer, more modern model. This will improve handling of your car and reduce its vulnerability to the death wobble.
7Inspect the front-end alignment of the car. Replace any bent or worn tie rods.
