Yes, I have exactly the syptoms you described. Waddle at slow speeds,
vibration at high speeds.

Does sound like the tires, eh? (the Canadian in me finally comes out!)

I hope it is the tires, as that's a known item that provides value when
replaced. Thing is, I don't know how to tell if it's that or the tie rods or
other front end components - really - no clue.

Cheers!

Marshall Ruskin
----- Original Message -----
From: <vanagons@ntplx.net>
To: "Marshall" <mjruskin@HOME.COM>
Cc: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2002 09:20 PM
Subject: Re: Bad Shimmy in the Steering Whell, front End "Jiggles"

> Marshal,
> If you're pretty sure it's not a wear problem with the front end (ie:
> tie rods, ball joints, etc.) I can tell you how we got took fer a ride!
> Local F**d-Mercrudy dealer, too! Our '96 Villager van's front end
> started this kind of waddle from side to side, at slower speeds it was
> very noticeable, just vibration as you speed up. Being our "best" car,
> we rushed it to the doctor's, trusting them to cure the malaise.
> Longer story shorter, $700 later (told us the brake rotors were warped,
> needed replacement, while at it , new caliper,one side, "service other
> side, etc) Took the car home and wouldn't you know, it was doing the
> same thing! More "waddly" at low speeds, vibration only at higher speed.
> Took it back to dealer, and were told the mechanic failed to note on the
> report that we also needed new front tires, in addition to the brake
> "service".
> Never got satisfaction from them! Went to Shears and got a new pair,
> never had the problem again...
> Good luck with yours,
> Doug
> '90 GL
>