130 PUMA gets the wobbles at 100

[Chenz]

I noticed that for the last couple of trips when on the open road and getting up to between 95 and 100 kph the vehicle gets a distinct wobble which is translated through the steering wheel. On the freeway when you get to 110 it goes away.

I checked the front wheels and can see no wheel weights missing and there is no play in the wheels. I also checked to see if there was a lump of mud or other matter that may be throwing off the balance but all clear.

Before I go and get a wheel balance and alignment, is there anything else I should be looking for?

As usual, any feedback and information would be greatly appreciated.

[Tombie]

Usually one of the following;
- loose panhard rod either bolts or bushes.
- swivel preload needs adjusting

[Naks]

Yep, check the Panhard rod

[POD]

When the panhard rod bushes are shot, the wobble disappears on gentle (i.e. freeway etc) bends as the panhard rod is loaded.

[DiscoMick]

Assuming your tyre doesn't have any chunks out of it, isn't out of round and has enough pressure.

[Sly]

bushes. Swivel preload !!!

[fitzy]

Tyre balance
When they get worn they tend to need a balance

[gruntfuttock]

I had the same symptoms, and it is the panhard rod. Just change it, it’s an easy fix. You can also get a kit to repair it. I just changed mine, quick and easy.

[uninformed]

I had the same symptoms, and it is the panhard rod. Just change it, it’s an easy fix. You can also get a kit to repair it. I just changed mine, quick and easy.

are you confusing the panhard with the drag link?

[gruntfuttock]

are you confusing the panhard with the drag link?
I could be. I’ve got to look at the dictionary to spell my name these days, it’s a wonder I can remember the way home at times. [wink11]
Its the drop arm that come so down from the steering box.

[Tombie]

I could be. I’ve got to look at the dictionary to spell my name these days, it’s a wonder I can remember the way home at times. [wink11]
Its the drop arm that come so down from the steering box.

From steering box to first swivel - Drag Link
From swivel to opposite swivel - tie rod
From chassis frame to axle tube - panhard rod

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/02/354.jpg

[Chenz]

Well rotated the tyres on the weekend and found one front wheel was more worn that the other. Then remembered that was the spare as I ripped the other new one on the last EDJITS trip. Out on the freeway and up to 110 and no wobble no more.

Too easy

Thanks for the suggestions guys and gals

[DazzaTD5]

We arent talking a 30 years old ex camel trophy Defender.....

Being a Defender TDCi (puma) 2007 onwards... I will put beer money on... get a wheel alignment / balance done and all will be good.

Some things dont change, overall Defenders are far less trouble than modern/other models for steering shake etc.