If you are watching this video and it’s now 2023 August or later and you have an older cascadia like mine 2015 this video helps a lot, but I have a simpler solution. Just bang the lower height adjusting rod metal bracket welded on to the differential with a hammer upwards and carefully (and try not to go past your desired height because to go the other way and bang it down you will have to remove the rod at the bottom bracket so you can get a good wack with the hammer to lower it as there is not enough space to hammer downward) until you acquire the desired height. Make sure your air supply is charged to the max or running if you can do it safely when you do the adjustment and enjoy.Thank you Pepper Mountain.
Unbelievable thank you for your great help I spend almost $3,000 balance alignment from time to time no one knows what's the problem I'm 100% agree with you. Let you know Thanks
God bless you man. I have been wanting to paint a martini on the side of my Freightliner (2002 Columbia) and label it shaken not stirred. Was told that it would get better when the tires are swapped out in the winter. Winter is here and still freightshaking.
I know this is a old video but I cut mine in the middle purchased a threader kit from harbor freight and put a 2 dollar turn buckle in the center with locking nuts on top and bottom.
Bang on; I’ve had these same problems with many of my trucks over the years and have repeatedly corrected it this same way, but trying to convince mechanics (Parts replacers) is like talking to a wall. You can actually measure the angles at the U - joints to get the perfect ride height. You can go broke chasing down these vibrations or a pull to the right/left, but the basic circle check is like building codes, they are bare minimums in understanding what causes a truck to drive like bastard. At 14 hours a day, a truck should be effortless to hold on to and communicate the road to the senses accurately. Drive a truck that pulls hard because of some unknown issue in the snow and see how dangerous it is to be blindly overcorrecting steering that’s wandering. Here’s a note to all trucking companies; your drivers may not know why they hate a specific truck and your mechanics are not drivers, but get this shit sorted out and your drivers won’t be so fatigued and maybe stick around a little longer. I’ve quit many, MANY! jobs because of stuff that doesn’t get fixed because it’s outside of the legal realm, but once again can still makes a truck completely dangerous. Ride height is extremely important... just call it ‘Fine Tuning’. Something that should be important for 60 tons @ 600 miles a day. To name a few more; - alignment - proper tires - clutch brake - shock absorbers ( just being intact and dry means nothing) - gear shift bushings - And fix the stereos or at least get a good ground. Thanks for posting this. .
You don't need to modify this rod on a Cascadia. The leveling valve pivots. The mounting hold nearest the frame is a round hole, but the other one is a slot, which allows the whole valve assembly to pivot up and down. Pivoting the leveling valve down is the same as lengthening the rod.
Thank you for that valuable information you saved my bacon I have been buying sets of tires after set the tires we're getting ready to actually give up Trucking but you save my bacon thank you so much
Wow! My 98 classic vibration has been making me nuts! New shafts, carrier bearing, yolks, joints, everything!!! Yet makes no noise when empty. Can’t wait to try this!!!! Great advise!!! TY!!!
My truck did that shaking a few month's ago after driving it for about 3 month's..had 8 shops look at it and no one could fix it ,,they all said diffrent things,,so i got pissed and quit... Now i know for next time....thanks
my single axle took almost 2" longer on that rod to get things correct. truck unloaded had only 1.5" between the bump stop. now with it right at 3" unloaded the truck is super smooth bobtail and loaded. smoother than my 1 ton pickup and this truck is a 2014 single axle day cab cascadia. rides perfect like this.
Bingo thanks, I have a 1997 Freightliner fld120, mine the rubber is separate so I just bought a metal rod at home depot and added 3 more inches so I could adjust mine. Works like a charm for $3 bucks!!!
The same info can be applied to the international prostar. I found your video because of that same issue on my prostar. When going up hill, it's beautiful, no vibration. Going down hill, it shakes viciously. Between 45 and 70. Checked tires, and even level valve. Found leveling valve to be bent. Thinking that is my problem. Going to see if I can get a longer leveler for maybe a volvo. Or, get a stiff bar from home depot and see if I can't solve the problem. Great video!
Damn man you really know your shit... I'm driving the "new" cascadia 2018 model freightliner and I'm just now starting to learn to do my own maintenance, but I sure hope I get to a point where I know what I'm talking about like you. These trucks need drivers that know every bone in their body. Too many guys today dont even know how to change a god damn light bulb on their trucks. We all gotta get back to our trucking roots if were gonna prevent ourselves from getting replaced with robo trucks.
I did noticed that the rear air bags are much more inflated or raised than the middle drive axle, it makes sense now that you say it, the rod needs to be longer in order to inflate the air bags a lot more.
I can't wait to give this a try. Iv been dealing with this for two years now. I tried centramatics and the problem is there. Iv been telling mechanics ( tecs) my problem and they just look at me like I'm crazy. The only help the centramatics did was while bobtailing. Before the centramatics I did get vibration while bobtail. After the centramatics was put on my truck ride smooth as a brand new Cadillac, but only when bobtail. As soon as I'm under a trailer loaded or empty she will shake and bounce bad around 65 to 72. This is weird thing though that really make tecs give me that stand look. If the road surface is concrete the truck with trailer loaded or empty rides smooth as a new Cadillac. Ass soon as the road surface turns to black top the truck goes back to shaking and bouncing. Side note. The last truck that I was in had the same problem and the company mec said the problem was the bushings on the rear dif control arm. I asked are you sure because they look fine to me. He assured me that was my problem and there was about 1/16 inch play in it and there should be no play at all. He changed it and he was 100 percent correct. The truck rode smooth after this repair.
the ride height valve is mounted with one hole slotted. why not loosen the bolts and tip the valve to achieve the proper ride height? seems quite a bit easier.
First Name you are right. This fix has not cost. I have same truck and to fix that just need to lose the valve bolts and move down your the valve a little and done. Only one side of the valve bracket it’s slotted for this purpose. Don’t cut your linkage, didn’t make sense.
Or do What I did- My truck was all over the place bouncing and shaking bad.- Tight Joints- But wore carrier bearing out- I have a sterling- I added a 3/4 inch aluminum Shim From Carrier bearing to crossmember to Lower the Driveline to even driveshaft from trans to rear end........Much Better- than raising the bags with the leveling valve.
Had this mod on my truck worked perfectly fine but when I hit i-80 tolls they have a super sensitive sensor measuring your height it happened with my empty trailer, when it was loaded I didn't have any problems so had to lower the air suspension to pass that tolls Good luck guys
I know many who have had success with this wear related re-adjustment modification. After 40 years of Freight Shakers being built the absolutely same way with *no wear testing science*, all the sudden due to the attention this video is getting I get a letter from Chrysler/Freightliner asking for input. What a bunch of morons, they have gone 40 years without ever asking drivers about their own product. No wonder MACK Truck is starting to kick the shit out of Freightliner in sales and service, MACK considers customer feedback in every truck! We are starting to buy the Mack now. Quality of the Volvo, but the brute beauty of a MACK~!
@@PrepperMountainSolutions get whatever you want, I'm by no means tied to a brand enough to want to defend one of them, they can all be POS and they can all be straight perfection... with that being said; Mack is absolutely not kicking the shit out of anyone with their class 8 sales. They have about 8% of the US market share, Volvo as a whole (Mack+Volvo) has about 16% to freightliner's 38% (Western Star has 2%, not really surprising). I'm not really sure how you would compare the different brands on service beyond customer preference but that's not really that reliable. I can pick 2 freightliner owners and one will say it's a POS and another will say its god's gift on earth, and I bet you can guess which one would be more vocal but just going off of basic economics (which is all I really know) diamler would no doubt be cheaper to service just based on their sheer numbers... I could be wrong though
I think understand now. The engine and trans is at an angle when the truck is on flat ground. If the truck is not high enough in the back, the driveshaft is perpendicular to the level ground, but not in a straight line with the angled engine n trans So you must raise the rear to get the drive shaft in a slanted but straight line as engine n trans. (??
yes thank you so much I have a 2011 and I hooked to a another tank and the truck felt like it would loose power I have no codes it vibrates like crazy, they changed the injectors all of them got better but I am hoping its that what you did. Thank you again. hope it works for me. Joel
I know many who have had success with this wear related re-adjustment modification. After 40 years of Freight Shakers being built the absolutely same way with *no wear testing science*, all the sudden due to the attention this video is getting I get a letter from Chrysler/Freightliner asking for input. What a bunch of morons, they have gone 40 years without ever asking drivers about their own product. No wonder MACK Truck is starting to kick the shit out of Freightliner in sales and service, MACK considers customer feedback in every truck! We are starting to buy the Mack now. Quality of the Volvo, but the brute beauty of a MACK~!
Where are you located? This video was very informative I’m not sure if what you were saying was the issue for my truck or not but yes it’s a 2020 in around 55 miles an hour the steering wheels start shaking violently as well as the whole front of the truck. I’ve already got the tires aligned and the problem is still present.
My 2014 cascadia would shake pretty bad starting at 45mph, and pull to the right. I just thought it was an alignment issue. It was my kingpins. So I replaced kingpins, tie rods, and steer tires. Drives straight and smooth now! I guess every truck can be different.
Good stuff Especially on the 2 5/8" measured from bump stock to bumper. Another good measurement is the top of the frame should be in line with the top of your tires. Varies by tire size and wear, but a set of 22.5 11Rs will be dead nuts with this scenario.
+LFS Trucking I have found that if it's ruined your tires you'll get little improvement. But the sweet spot is 5/8" loaded ride height increase on most.
I just put brand new drives and steers just to eliminate tires from the equation. I'm going to spend tomorrow under the truck replacing a couple of u joints and fix the ride height. The shaking is pissing me off.
This would explain a shaking issue in an fld I used to drive. I'd have to slide the fifth wheel any time tires were replaced to eliminate a vibration. I think it was back with new drives, forward with new steers, and forward when the drives were about half worn.
Prepper Mountain I knew how to make it stop shaking. I just didn't know why it was. But I can see where having extra weight on the steer axle could cause extra droop in the rear axle (especially with the leveling valve on the front drive) and throw driveshaft alignment out.
measurement is supposed to be from the ground to bottom of frame sitting level . adjust according to mfg's specs and youll be ok .ran into this on my international years ago . diagnosed as trans input shaft worn. new air valve and it was fixed
Hi, i have 2019 Freightliner cascadia (new gen). I have been having the same issue but it started shaking after I changed drive tires. Shaking didn’t go away after alignment, new shocks or balancing. Do new generation have the same issue? Any advice would help
Great video man!!!! I don't know if you came across this problem before but I am going to ask anyways. I have 1998 Fld and the chassis leans to the passenger side and the front of the truck. On steering axle chassis is 1'' 3/4 lower , front drive is 1''3/8 and rear drive 1'' all that compare to the driver side. I replaced the front leaf spring thinking that was the problem and is the same. I took a look at every square inch of the chassis and found no cracks or anything out of place, not even the tires have abnormal wear . With empty airbags only the front drive axle on driver side wont seat properly, I think because the airbag ( looks a little bit taller, maybe because is newer I don't know ) but the front of the truck will stay the same. Yesterday found a barely audible air leak on the air suspension valve to the passenger side, but after repairs nothing changed . Any thoughts ?
+d0colb Sounds like you have a front spindle off a 1992 to 1995 FL put on when a king pin got changed. That would explain exactly 1-3/8 of height difference.
i just bought the same valve for my 98 volvo i hope it fits they say it will... im shaking big time.. pulling my rv! anything over 40 plus my air bags look way over extended..
What happened to freightliner that bar used to be adjustable mine in the 80s screwed in or out and had a lock nut, funny you said yes this truck will do 80 my peterbuilt back in the 70s was a triple digit truck
I shortend mine by 3/8 of a inch and rides like you are sleeping in your own bed at home she is geared for 100 mph i have 2 1/4 inches of clearance between axle stop it took the bounce out by lowering it 3/8of a inch do not make it longer you need to go shorter
In April 2017 I started getting the vibration issue. I had 10 new tires put on in January 2017. Over the last 2 and a half months, I have had the drive shaft checked, straightened and balanced, all new spicer u-joints, shocks all the way around including the sleeper shocks. None of this has fixed the vibration issue. I'm at my wits end as being a team, it is nearly impossible to rest while the truck is going down the road.
+Clinton Kirker Freightliner stretched their frame, moved numerous things over years but never has made a in cab ride height adjustment system to keep the torque effect under control. Recently I did. It's my miracle of common sense and works on a simple servo motor and a dial control from a remote control airplane. Due to design theft possibilities I will not do a video on it. But it is the bolt on end of most vibration and driver adjustable in cab.
Prepper Mountain I'm going to give it a try. The servo idea would most likely be preferable as we do a very diverse amount of weight. As little as 125 lbs in the box to as much as 43500 which is the maximum I can carry. Around 20,000 lbs would be typical for us.
Prepper Mountain much smoother than before, however it still has a small shimmy. I'm going to assume that it is because of the tires dealing with the vibration for almost 30,000 miles. I want to put more miles on the drives before buying more. They only have about 63,000 miles on them now. Thanks for the video.
I finally got my vibration issue resolved. Even though your issue wasn’t entirely the same as mine. I’m leaving you this information in case you start having more vibration issues. www.tru-bal dot com When I reluctantly had them installed, I wasn’t expecting them to work. I truly believed it was more snake oil, but after almost 7 months and over 130,xxx miles. I’m now a believer. The only vibration I get now is from the engine and normal road vibrations. I love it that I can sleep while my co-driver is driving. Thanks for your input and I hope this information helps you as well as other drivers.
I have the same truck you have and have never had a shaking problem. My truck now has over 600k miles. Your components are probably worn out and need replacement. I would say cutting factory made parts is absolutely unnecessary. Clearly your truck was not shaking before you started having this shaking problem. The RUclipsr “Vic Med” has a video on how to fix this problem titled “Shaking on drive tires.” As to why Freightliners are sometimes called Freight-shakers is probably due to the fact that Freightliners are the most sold trucks in the US and happen to also be popular among owner operators who drive these trucks past one million miles. Heck, Freightliner even has a “million mile club” for those who make it.
Valve has adjustment!!! He sounds like he knows what he’s talking about. But he’s making a simple job harder. Loosen the bolts and adjust the damn valve.
All trucks vary on actual size, but using the tire height standard from the manufacturer you will quickly find the Mexican made springs sag 6 to 8% then stop and settle within 4 months of mileage. So this is a good fix but requires some trial and error.
Prepper Mountain, question, when you say 2 and 5/8 inches between the bump stop and axle safety, is that when bobtail or with empty trailer, or max loaded? Also is this on the frond drive axle or rear?
+Walker Forsyth Factory set height, Empty or loaded. That's the purpose of the auto leveler. It should maintain level, or attempt to constantly in all but load conditions that exceed your air bags support levels.
Mine shakes empty starts at 45 mph but it feels like if it were in the steer but My drive tires are treading not my steers. I already changed my carrier barring thinking it was that, did alignment on all 3 axles. Maybe this is the solution but would it also effect my steering wheel to shake as well?
The 2013 Cascadia that I drive vibrates and makes a rumbing sound only when the there is load on the drive train. and this vibration feels like the driveshaft is twisting out of center. My front end shimmies and my hood is wiggling left and right. I know that my shocks are gone completely.
The shaft is not supposed to be straight I think there is supposed to be at least 3 degrees off level to keep needle bearings rolling if they don’t move I will cause premature ware but can cause vibration if driveshaft is out of phase
Travel of it is 2 to 5, but once you get the initial axle spring break in ( about 10k miles) your at 6 to 10 degrees then worse over time till the springs settle.
I tried that, but I think it’s the fuel quantity valve. Because it still shakes really bad when I’m going 5 mph. When I come to a complete stop, or go 3mph it goes away. When I hit 5mph, it starts shaking very bad. It also shakes when I’m going down the freeway.
I got a 2007 just replaced them ujoint and carrier twice in bout 7 years but my rear tires don't get like that it's my steer tires and i spent lots of money on alignment
quick question, i have 2019 peterbilt and the front wheels wobble they shake alot between 45 and 60 mph, i took it to peterbilt they put everything new and it still does it and they dont know what it could be could you help me out?
Don’t add to much I put on universal rod added 1 inch broke of the differential pinion shaft outside where universal joint goes luckily I found used one for $1000
Would it effect a 2004 freightliner columbia... i have one and mine is shaking at 1000 rpm and phase out a little bit by 1500 rpm ... at 9th gear need shit gear to 10th and if the rpm comes close to 1000 rpm it starts to struggle to raise the rpm
3 reasons. Spring and bushing wear, Body mount wear, and tire diameter reduction over time. Your tires get shorter as they wear, changes drive line angle Your body and air ride also get lower. So, by the time your tires are a inch shorter and your truck sits at more a angle to the drive line then you have the issue prominent. Include wear in the air adjuster valve, permanent leaf droop to your front end and voilà'! The fact that the drive shaft is not correct for decades comes from a permanent disregard from Chrysler. From the factory with all new parts its usually ok. But after 50,000 the fact they did not make a adjustable rod is why Freight liner-Sterling-Western Star trucks get the shaker badge of honor.
+sticK&Clutch The Volvo’s issues are almost always related to sway bar bushings. And occasionally the carrier bearing mount or bearing itself. Check those locations.
+sticK&Clutch PS- Carrier bearings on some Volvo’s are side to side adjustible. If it's worked it's way to the drivers side, re-center it and see if your 25 to 80 mph vibration changes.
damn not sure if this is happening. but i got chinese on my drives and shake between 45 and 70 and it comes and goes sometimes when its happening i let go of the gas and it starts to get worst. but its when i am bobtailing or empty thats its the worst. could the tire shop mounted the tires wrong?
+melvin arias Try a 2 bolt rotation. Remove wheel, go forward 2 bolts and Re install on every outer tire. Chinese tires are made 1 per 40 seconds, American tires made 1 per 95 seconds. Removing from injection mold so fast produces a very unbalanced tire.
If you are watching this video and it’s now 2023 August or later and you have an older cascadia like mine 2015 this video helps a lot, but I have a simpler solution. Just bang the lower height adjusting rod metal bracket welded on to the differential with a hammer upwards and carefully (and try not to go past your desired height because to go the other way and bang it down you will have to remove the rod at the bottom bracket so you can get a good wack with the hammer to lower it as there is not enough space to hammer downward) until you acquire the desired height. Make sure your air supply is charged to the max or running if you can do it safely when you do the adjustment and enjoy.Thank you Pepper Mountain.
Did it work with your 2015 freightliner cascadia? I'm having the same issue with a bounce, thought it could be the cpc4
Unbelievable thank you for your great help I spend almost $3,000 balance alignment from time to time no one knows what's the problem I'm 100% agree with you. Let you know
Thanks
God bless you man. I have been wanting to paint a martini on the side of my Freightliner (2002 Columbia) and label it shaken not stirred. Was told that it would get better when the tires are swapped out in the winter. Winter is here and still freightshaking.
I know this is a old video but I cut mine in the middle purchased a threader kit from harbor freight and put a 2 dollar turn buckle in the center with locking nuts on top and bottom.
Did you notice the difference?
Bang on; I’ve had these same problems with many of my trucks over the years and have repeatedly corrected it this same way, but trying to convince mechanics (Parts replacers) is like talking to a wall. You can actually measure the angles at the U - joints to get the perfect ride height.
You can go broke chasing down these vibrations or a pull to the right/left, but the basic circle check is like building codes, they are bare minimums in understanding what causes a truck to drive like bastard.
At 14 hours a day, a truck should be effortless to hold on to and communicate the road to the senses accurately. Drive a truck that pulls hard because of some unknown issue in the snow and see how dangerous it is to be blindly overcorrecting steering that’s wandering.
Here’s a note to all trucking companies; your drivers may not know why they hate a specific truck and your mechanics are not drivers, but get this shit sorted out and your drivers won’t be so fatigued and maybe stick around a little longer.
I’ve quit many, MANY! jobs because of stuff that doesn’t get fixed because it’s outside of the legal realm, but once again can still makes a truck completely dangerous. Ride height is extremely important... just call it ‘Fine Tuning’. Something that should be important for 60 tons @ 600 miles a day.
To name a few more;
- alignment
- proper tires
- clutch brake
- shock absorbers ( just being intact and dry means nothing)
- gear shift bushings
- And fix the stereos or at least get a good ground.
Thanks for posting this.
.
Amen brother.
You don't need to modify this rod on a Cascadia. The leveling valve pivots. The mounting hold nearest the frame is a round hole, but the other one is a slot, which allows the whole valve assembly to pivot up and down. Pivoting the leveling valve down is the same as lengthening the rod.
That’s what I did to my truck
Thank you for that valuable information you saved my bacon I have been buying sets of tires after set the tires we're getting ready to actually give up Trucking but you save my bacon thank you so much
Thank you thank you, it worked. No more shaking on our 2009
Hi there i got a 2010 cascadia how did work out for u
Wow! My 98 classic vibration has been making me nuts! New shafts, carrier bearing, yolks, joints, everything!!! Yet makes no noise when empty. Can’t wait to try this!!!! Great advise!!! TY!!!
putting a new one on my volvo now i pull my rv with.. i have a bad vibration and i think this is the problem ,
@@TheDepreys hi sr i had this in my 17 volvo , what fix your issue the leveling valve or the rod ? im trying to figure it out
My truck did that shaking a few month's ago after driving it for about 3 month's..had 8 shops look at it and no one could fix it ,,they all said diffrent things,,so i got pissed and quit... Now i know for next time....thanks
my single axle took almost 2" longer on that rod to get things correct. truck unloaded had only 1.5" between the bump stop. now with it right at 3" unloaded the truck is super smooth bobtail and loaded. smoother than my 1 ton pickup and this truck is a 2014 single axle day cab cascadia. rides perfect like this.
Bingo thanks, I have a 1997 Freightliner fld120, mine the rubber is separate so I just bought a metal rod at home depot and added 3 more inches so I could adjust mine. Works like a charm for $3 bucks!!!
+Sonia Patterson Awesome results. Save them tires, set it right
The same info can be applied to the international prostar. I found your video because of that same issue on my prostar. When going up hill, it's beautiful, no vibration. Going down hill, it shakes viciously. Between 45 and 70. Checked tires, and even level valve. Found leveling valve to be bent. Thinking that is my problem. Going to see if I can get a longer leveler for maybe a volvo. Or, get a stiff bar from home depot and see if I can't solve the problem. Great video!
Same issue 2017 prostar,did u fix it?
Damn man you really know your shit... I'm driving the "new" cascadia 2018 model freightliner and I'm just now starting to learn to do my own maintenance, but I sure hope I get to a point where I know what I'm talking about like you. These trucks need drivers that know every bone in their body. Too many guys today dont even know how to change a god damn light bulb on their trucks. We all gotta get back to our trucking roots if were gonna prevent ourselves from getting replaced with robo trucks.
you should buy a bunch and weld and change the length. then sell them. I would rather buy one already 3/8 longer. then do it myself
I did noticed that the rear air bags are much more inflated or raised than the middle drive axle, it makes sense now that you say it, the rod needs to be longer in order to inflate the air bags a lot more.
I can't wait to give this a try. Iv been dealing with this for two years now. I tried centramatics and the problem is there. Iv been telling mechanics ( tecs) my problem and they just look at me like I'm crazy.
The only help the centramatics did was while bobtailing. Before the centramatics I did get vibration while bobtail. After the centramatics was put on my truck ride smooth as a brand new Cadillac, but only when bobtail.
As soon as I'm under a trailer loaded or empty she will shake and bounce bad around 65 to 72. This is weird thing though that really make tecs give me that stand look. If the road surface is concrete the truck with trailer loaded or empty rides smooth as a new Cadillac.
Ass soon as the road surface turns to black top the truck goes back to shaking and bouncing.
Side note. The last truck that I was in had the same problem and the company mec said the problem was the bushings on the rear dif control arm. I asked are you sure because they look fine to me. He assured me that was my problem and there was about 1/16 inch play in it and there should be no play at all. He changed it and he was 100 percent correct. The truck rode smooth after this repair.
I did 3 axle alignment, 2 front new tires and valance, hanging bearing, front drums with small holes and I'm happy, king pins were ok
I have exact same issue. Western star. But same with concrete and black top. Please contact me for advice on how to fix.
the ride height valve is mounted with one hole slotted. why not loosen the bolts and tip the valve to achieve the proper ride height? seems quite a bit easier.
First Name you are right. This fix has not cost. I have same truck and to fix that just need to lose the valve bolts and move down your the valve a little and done. Only one side of the valve bracket it’s slotted for this purpose. Don’t cut your linkage, didn’t make sense.
I was thinking the same thing
mine didnt have near enough adjustment. thats why people do this.
Nothing can fix these Freightshakers but better build quality..
I’m gonna try this next thanks✍🏼✍🏼✍🏼
Did you try it???
Good video id appreciate knowing what’s the total length of the bar once welded?
Or do What I did- My truck was all over the place bouncing and shaking bad.- Tight Joints- But wore carrier bearing out- I have a sterling- I added a 3/4 inch aluminum Shim From Carrier bearing to crossmember to Lower the Driveline to even driveshaft from trans to rear end........Much Better- than raising the bags with the leveling valve.
Thank u. Great idea u contributed sir.
Go to farm supply store and by the ajustable piceses then you can go up or down rubber gromets pop right in and then you can set it where you want
Wow, thanks for the information.👍
Had this mod on my truck worked perfectly fine but when I hit i-80 tolls they have a super sensitive sensor measuring your height it happened with my empty trailer, when it was loaded I didn't have any problems so had to lower the air suspension to pass that tolls
Good luck guys
I know many who have had success with this wear related re-adjustment modification. After 40 years of Freight Shakers being built the absolutely same way with *no wear testing science*, all the sudden due to the attention this video is getting I get a letter from Chrysler/Freightliner asking for input.
What a bunch of morons, they have gone 40 years without ever asking drivers about their own product. No wonder MACK Truck is starting to kick the shit out of Freightliner in sales and service, MACK considers customer feedback in every truck!
We are starting to buy the Mack now. Quality of the Volvo, but the brute beauty of a MACK~!
@@PrepperMountainSolutions get whatever you want, I'm by no means tied to a brand enough to want to defend one of them, they can all be POS and they can all be straight perfection... with that being said; Mack is absolutely not kicking the shit out of anyone with their class 8 sales. They have about 8% of the US market share, Volvo as a whole (Mack+Volvo) has about 16% to freightliner's 38% (Western Star has 2%, not really surprising). I'm not really sure how you would compare the different brands on service beyond customer preference but that's not really that reliable. I can pick 2 freightliner owners and one will say it's a POS and another will say its god's gift on earth, and I bet you can guess which one would be more vocal but just going off of basic economics (which is all I really know) diamler would no doubt be cheaper to service just based on their sheer numbers... I could be wrong though
I think understand now. The engine and trans is at an angle when the truck is on flat ground. If the truck is not high enough in the back, the driveshaft is perpendicular to the level ground, but not in a straight line with the angled engine n trans So you must raise the rear to get the drive shaft in a slanted but straight line as engine n trans. (??
yes thank you so much I have a 2011 and I hooked to a another tank and the truck felt like it would loose power I have no codes it vibrates like crazy, they changed the injectors all of them got better but I am hoping its that what you did. Thank you again. hope it works for me. Joel
I know many who have had success with this wear related re-adjustment modification. After 40 years of Freight Shakers being built the absolutely same way with *no wear testing science*, all the sudden due to the attention this video is getting I get a letter from Chrysler/Freightliner asking for input.
What a bunch of morons, they have gone 40 years without ever asking drivers about their own product. No wonder MACK Truck is starting to kick the shit out of Freightliner in sales and service, MACK considers customer feedback in every truck!
We are starting to buy the Mack now. Quality of the Volvo, but the brute beauty of a MACK~!
Where are you located? This video was very informative I’m not sure if what you were saying was the issue for my truck or not but yes it’s a 2020 in around 55 miles an hour the steering wheels start shaking violently as well as the whole front of the truck. I’ve already got the tires aligned and the problem is still present.
My 2014 cascadia would shake pretty bad starting at 45mph, and pull to the right. I just thought it was an alignment issue. It was my kingpins. So I replaced kingpins, tie rods, and steer tires. Drives straight and smooth now! I guess every truck can be different.
Some really good information thanks for sharing and keep up the good work.
Good video a lot of people don’t know this quick fix
Excellent video....helped me with a few issues I've been experiencing, from vibration to high beams being mistaken as being on. Thx a shitload
+mydannyboy68 Good deal
Good stuff
Especially on the 2 5/8" measured from bump stock to bumper.
Another good measurement is the top of the frame should be in line with the top of your tires. Varies by tire size and wear, but a set of 22.5 11Rs will be dead nuts with this scenario.
To do this measurement, does the tractor has to be connected with the trailer or just tractor by itself?
I've been fighting the same shake for weeks now, will be adjusting my ride height tomorrow.
+LFS Trucking I have found that if it's ruined your tires you'll get little improvement. But the sweet spot is 5/8" loaded ride height increase on most.
I just put brand new drives and steers just to eliminate tires from the equation. I'm going to spend tomorrow under the truck replacing a couple of u joints and fix the ride height. The shaking is pissing me off.
2014? looks like its a 1914
+BigTymin They treat trucks so nice in Mexico it aged 100 years lol.
Lol
I have a 2012 freightliner cascadia that does the some problem. I'm glad watched your video. Thanks!!!
Hello. My columbia 2014 60 series has vibration when it rolls itself like as a downhill what can be a problem please explain to me it very helps me
will it cupp the steer tires also??
This would explain a shaking issue in an fld I used to drive. I'd have to slide the fifth wheel any time tires were replaced to eliminate a vibration. I think it was back with new drives, forward with new steers, and forward when the drives were about half worn.
Prepper Mountain I knew how to make it stop shaking. I just didn't know why it was. But I can see where having extra weight on the steer axle could cause extra droop in the rear axle (especially with the leveling valve on the front drive) and throw driveshaft alignment out.
measurement is supposed to be from the ground to bottom of frame sitting level . adjust according to mfg's specs and youll be ok .ran into this on my international years ago . diagnosed as trans input shaft worn. new air valve and it was fixed
Ty!!!!!! Your amazing sir
Hi, i have 2019 Freightliner cascadia (new gen). I have been having the same issue but it started shaking after I changed drive tires. Shaking didn’t go away after alignment, new shocks or balancing. Do new generation have the same issue? Any advice would help
Awesome brother.
Please make more videos.
Love it!!!
Liked and subbed
Thank you
Great video man!!!! I don't know if you came across this problem before but I am going to ask anyways. I have 1998 Fld and the chassis leans to the passenger side and the front of the truck. On steering axle chassis is 1'' 3/4 lower , front drive is 1''3/8 and rear drive 1'' all that compare to the driver side. I replaced the front leaf spring thinking that was the problem and is the same. I took a look at every square inch of the chassis and found no cracks or anything out of place, not even the tires have abnormal wear . With empty airbags only the front drive axle on driver side wont seat properly, I think because the airbag ( looks a little bit taller, maybe because is newer I don't know ) but the front of the truck will stay the same. Yesterday found a barely audible air leak on the air suspension valve to the passenger side, but after repairs nothing changed . Any thoughts ?
+d0colb Sounds like you have a front spindle off a 1992 to 1995 FL put on when a king pin got changed. That would explain exactly 1-3/8 of height difference.
Thanks for the tip man. The shop that replaced the spring leaf supposedly checked everything, I guess I have homework to do. Thanks again.
Great video. Thanks for sharing.
Thx ur a God sent 🙏 💓
Thank you!!
Fifth wheel could use some grease.
i just bought the same valve for my 98 volvo i hope it fits they say it will... im shaking big time.. pulling my rv! anything over 40 plus my air bags look way over extended..
What happened to freightliner that bar used to be adjustable mine in the 80s screwed in or out and had a lock nut, funny you said yes this truck will do 80 my peterbuilt back in the 70s was a triple digit truck
And to think.... engineers couldn't figure this issue out. Surely Freightliner would never issue a recall
I see you have more cool videos, I subscribed.
Look for more on the channel, trailer building
I changed it out...can u suggest me something else it could be?
I shortend mine by 3/8 of a inch and rides like you are sleeping in your own bed at home she is geared for 100 mph i have 2 1/4 inches of clearance between axle stop it took the bounce out by lowering it 3/8of a inch do not make it longer you need to go shorter
bro i have this problem with a volvo 780, shaking pass 50 mph
Can u find the leveler with a adjustable srcew new ? So u dont have to cut and weld ?
Can this be the same problem for truck bouncing at 25 to 30 mph and 45 to 50 mph loaded
My 88 Cabover will about shake itself to pieces, loaded or unloaded. Is this also a problem for that year, with the same solution?
In April 2017 I started getting the vibration issue. I had 10 new tires put on in January 2017. Over the last 2 and a half months, I have had the drive shaft checked, straightened and balanced, all new spicer u-joints, shocks all the way around including the sleeper shocks. None of this has fixed the vibration issue. I'm at my wits end as being a team, it is nearly impossible to rest while the truck is going down the road.
+Clinton Kirker Freightliner stretched their frame, moved numerous things over years but never has made a in cab ride height adjustment system to keep the torque effect under control. Recently I did.
It's my miracle of common sense and works on a simple servo motor and a dial control from a remote control airplane.
Due to design theft possibilities I will not do a video on it. But it is the bolt on end of most vibration and driver adjustable in cab.
Prepper Mountain I'm going to give it a try. The servo idea would most likely be preferable as we do a very diverse amount of weight. As little as 125 lbs in the box to as much as 43500 which is the maximum I can carry. Around 20,000 lbs would be typical for us.
Prepper Mountain much smoother than before, however it still has a small shimmy. I'm going to assume that it is because of the tires dealing with the vibration for almost 30,000 miles. I want to put more miles on the drives before buying more. They only have about 63,000 miles on them now. Thanks for the video.
Pepper Mountain I'd be interested in one of them Servo deals either the plans are finished box if you're willing to sell it.
I finally got my vibration issue resolved. Even though your issue wasn’t entirely the same as mine. I’m leaving you this information in case you start having more vibration issues.
www.tru-bal dot com
When I reluctantly had them installed, I wasn’t expecting them to work. I truly believed it was more snake oil, but after almost 7 months and over 130,xxx miles. I’m now a believer. The only vibration I get now is from the engine and normal road vibrations. I love it that I can sleep while my co-driver is driving. Thanks for your input and I hope this information helps you as well as other drivers.
Isn't it possible to adjust the leveling valve?
A John Holmes extension ?
i think most trucks have an ajustment in the mount bolt
Iam hving the same issue on a 2000 international 9400i could that be the same issue?
I have the same truck you have and have never had a shaking problem. My truck now has over 600k miles. Your components are probably worn out and need replacement. I would say cutting factory made parts is absolutely unnecessary. Clearly your truck was not shaking before you started having this shaking problem.
The RUclipsr “Vic Med” has a video on how to fix this problem titled “Shaking on drive tires.”
As to why Freightliners are sometimes called Freight-shakers is probably due to the fact that Freightliners are the most sold trucks in the US and happen to also be popular among owner operators who drive these trucks past one million miles. Heck, Freightliner even has a “million mile club” for those who make it.
Why don't you cut it and thread each end and turn it into a clevis so you can adjust and fine tune the length?
It threads very poorly.
Prepper Mountain could you send me one that you’ve welded already to me in the mail? $
Valve has adjustment!!! He sounds like he knows what he’s talking about. But he’s making a simple job harder. Loosen the bolts and adjust the damn valve.
You can also adjust the fifth wheel
This is helpful hell I need too pull up on you and let you do mine lol nice video thanks for the info
I have 2019 and same issue in shop 4times in one year
So , did u fixed the problem or at list figure out why yours was shaking?
hi there how are you ? could you plz let me know what is the total size of rod before and after
All trucks vary on actual size, but using the tire height standard from the manufacturer you will quickly find the Mexican made springs sag 6 to 8% then stop and settle within 4 months of mileage. So this is a good fix but requires some trial and error.
Might want to try about 3 dollars worth of grease on that fifth wheel dude.
Very good information thanks
Freight and the shaker band now on duty.
Prepper Mountain, question, when you say 2 and 5/8 inches between the bump stop and axle safety, is that when bobtail or with empty trailer, or max loaded? Also is this on the frond drive axle or rear?
+Walker Forsyth Factory set height, Empty or loaded. That's the purpose of the auto leveler. It should maintain level, or attempt to constantly in all but load conditions that exceed your air bags support levels.
Prepper Mountain
got it, I'll check it out, thanks for responding back.
Mine shakes empty starts at 45 mph but it feels like if it were in the steer but My drive tires are treading not my steers. I already changed my carrier barring thinking it was that, did alignment on all 3 axles. Maybe this is the solution but would it also effect my steering wheel to shake as well?
Did you fix your vibration problem.?
Sometimes the front wheel is bent to crap. not anything to do with ride height
The ride height is adjustable. Why would you modify anything when you can just make a few small adjustments?
+Trucking With Authority Depending on models. Some have a adjustment nut, most are a factory preset. Done both.
my freightliner mechanic just changed cab and drive shaft shocks. I am sure it has to with this issue.
Part of it
Do you still have this truck?
I think the bar shrinks and or bends overtime. It ends up coming out of nowhere and getting worse.
The 2013 Cascadia that I drive vibrates and makes a rumbing sound only when the there is load on the drive train. and this vibration feels like the driveshaft is twisting out of center. My front end shimmies and my hood is wiggling left and right. I know that my shocks are gone completely.
Does 2016 freightliner Cascadia dd15 have the same issue?
The shaft is not supposed to be straight I think there is supposed to be at least 3 degrees off level to keep needle bearings rolling if they don’t move I will cause premature ware but can cause vibration if driveshaft is out of phase
Travel of it is 2 to 5, but once you get the initial axle spring break in ( about 10k miles) your at 6 to 10 degrees then worse over time till the springs settle.
So if i make my truck ride higher in the back the shaking will be gone? I have a 97 Century with mild shake but only has a rear level valve
I tried that, but I think it’s the fuel quantity valve. Because it still shakes really bad when I’m going 5 mph. When I come to a complete stop, or go 3mph it goes away. When I hit 5mph, it starts shaking very bad. It also shakes when I’m going down the freeway.
I got a 2007 just replaced them ujoint and carrier twice in bout 7 years but my rear tires don't get like that it's my steer tires and i spent lots of money on alignment
Then check your steering box, that's 90% front end issues. Slack should be 3/8" Max of center. More is shake and bake.
Yes sr i wonder if it works' in a 2018 volvo i pull a trailer chassis with a iso tank container?? Thanks sr. For the info.
quick question, i have 2019 peterbilt and the front wheels wobble they shake alot between 45 and 60 mph, i took it to peterbilt they put everything new and it still does it and they dont know what it could be could you help me out?
Without the tractors airbags well tuned and equally aired up the front end will be getting a invalued load which could cause extreme wobble.
What about Volvo trucks?
Don’t add to much I put on universal rod added 1 inch broke of the differential pinion shaft outside where universal joint goes luckily I found used one for $1000
Would that cause the steer tires to wear out ? Mine are worn out to on the inside and outside..😐☹️
Same issue
Righg on the money
Would it effect a 2004 freightliner columbia... i have one and mine is shaking at 1000 rpm and phase out a little bit by 1500 rpm ... at 9th gear need shit gear to 10th and if the rpm comes close to 1000 rpm it starts to struggle to raise the rpm
Sounds like a injector issue
My truck is a 2015 Western Star and it rode smooth for the first 100,000 miles. If this rod is my problem, why did it ride smooth when new?
3 reasons. Spring and bushing wear, Body mount wear, and tire diameter reduction over time.
Your tires get shorter as they wear, changes drive line angle
Your body and air ride also get lower.
So, by the time your tires are a inch shorter and your truck sits at more a angle to the drive line then you have the issue prominent.
Include wear in the air adjuster valve, permanent leaf droop to your front end and voilà'! The fact that the drive shaft is not correct for decades comes from a permanent disregard from Chrysler.
From the factory with all new parts its usually ok. But after 50,000 the fact they did not make a adjustable rod is why Freight liner-Sterling-Western Star trucks get the shaker badge of honor.
Would this same problem be for a Freightliner Straight Truck?
+Deanna Whiton Yes if it's a 10 wheeler with air ride cab.
Would a 93 fld have this problem? I just bought the truck and haven't had it up that fast of speed to find out. I'm pulling a flatbed tho.
+David Martinez Due to age, a 1993 FLD would likely have a worn air control and shake on occasion.
Let me guess!!! when you push in the clutch at 70 mph,, the noise and the vibration goes away!! because there is no load on the drivetrain.
Will that leveling valve rod modification work on a 2002 freightliner columbia day cab?
+LandK 1 If it is the same length as a cab and sleeper with the same u-joint mounting points of the carrier bearing as a sleeper truck then yes.
Can this be performed on Volvo t300...my truck has severe vibration just as you explained
+sticK&Clutch The Volvo’s issues are almost always related to sway bar bushings. And occasionally the carrier bearing mount or bearing itself. Check those locations.
+sticK&Clutch PS- Carrier bearings on some Volvo’s are side to side adjustible. If it's worked it's way to the drivers side, re-center it and see if your 25 to 80 mph vibration changes.
I wonder if that is what the problem is on my 16 international
damn not sure if this is happening. but i got chinese on my drives and shake between 45 and 70 and it comes and goes sometimes when its happening i let go of the gas and it starts to get worst. but its when i am bobtailing or empty thats its the worst. could the tire shop mounted the tires wrong?
+melvin arias Try a 2 bolt rotation. Remove wheel, go forward 2 bolts and Re install on every outer tire.
Chinese tires are made 1 per 40 seconds, American tires made 1 per 95 seconds. Removing from injection mold so fast produces a very unbalanced tire.