CV Joint, steer axle, u joint???

[kanthony1]

Good afternoon. New here onboard and needing some guidance. 2004 Ram 2500 5.9 Cummins.

Back in September I replaced both outer joints - upper ball joints - lower ball joints. In the previous week or two I've developed a squeaking from front axle drive side, and a good vibration at 40 mph and greater. Snapping & popping while pulling out of the driveway. Going down the interstate I can remove my hands from the steering wheel and it drives a straight line, no jerks or pulling to either side. Any & all knowledge would be greatly appreciated.

 

[LateToTheParty]

Welcome. I'm guessing this question may get more traction if you were to have posted it in the 3rd Gen section, rather than the 4.5 gen.

That said, many of the current 4.5 gen owners have had prior experience, so I guess we'll see.

To me, going based purely by your explanation the squeaking and vibration sounds like a u-joint that could be in need of greasing. The snapping/popping while bouncing off the curb (assumed a curb when pulling out of driveway) sounds like something didn't get tightened properly with one or more of the ball joints.