shimmy or death wobble

[1930deluxe]

Why is it called death wobble?

 

[Tacoma Bob]

If you have experienced it you will know. Once it starts you cannot control the steering. It gets your attention reeeeal quick.

 

[Bill G]

At pretty slow speeds (fortunately) the front-end starts a rhythmic oscillation where the front tires wobble back and forth. Probably called death wobble because it can be scary, especially if you experience it for the first time. Sometimes brought on by hitting an uneven section of road, a pot-hole, or maybe just because. It can usually be stopped by yanking the steering wheel to one side quickly, but sometimes not. The root cause is worn front-end parts. Like Tacoma Bob says, if you experience it, you will know for sure. Also, if you do experience it, you will be in great company.

 

[old31]

Why? Because you feel you will die if you keep driving. Been there.

 

[MickeyT]

Because you think the front end is going to fall apart and you are going to die.

 

[1931 flamingo]

Usually you have to come to a "dead" stop and then start off again.................
Paul in CT