so when I did the 5-lug swap, the only obvious problem was the bearing noise. Well, now that I've got that fixed, I'm noticing other things. At pretty much any decent speed, the steering wheel shudders back and forth. I'm pretty sure it's not associated with the brakes, because it does it all the time. It makes me quite nervous, because I don't know if something is falling apart under me. Is this an alignment issue, or what?



My wipers also crapped out on me during rain.

 

My first guess would be wheel balance. Have you had the front end aligned since the swap?

 

nope. Is aligning something I can do myself, or does it require some special tools/machine?

 

I suppose you could do a half-assed job with a tape measure and a wrench, but I wouldn't recommend it. Probably best to go to a good shop. Most tire stores should be able to get it right.



Like I said, first guess would be wheel balance. If you switch the fronts with the backs, does it change anything?

 

I guess I could try swapping the fronts with the backs, and see what happens. The tires are old, and I'm sure they need balancing.

 

Get your wheels balanced. Suddering in the steering wheel is the front wheels, shuddering in your seat is your rears.

 

things to do:

get tires balanced

cut down on bean burritos

 

add to Baldy's list of things to do:



3) roll down windows

4) purchase case of scented pine trees to counteract bean burritos

 

You really should get it aligned too. Especially when you put new tires on.

 

ok, I'll check that out.