Shimmy at 70mph, seafoam and other newbie q's

[Jacko137]

I just bought my first 4runner--2000 SR5 Sport--and completed a 12 hour drive back home. She's in good shape with 125,000 but I've got a wheel vibration that is intermittent between 65-70. I'm no mechanic, so I suppose could be a simple alignment or balance issue. It does do it both coasting (neutral) and under load, so I'm hoping its not a larger drivetrain issue. The fact that it seems to come and go and is so speed specific does have me wondering. It's not overly bad, but you can see the steering wheel move for sure.

Might this also be a bad tie rod? How would you guys suggest I start trouble shooting?

Also, I plan to flush and change all fluids including diffs, transmission, engine, coolant and new plugs/wires. I've heard some talk of Seafoam...should I try it, or leave well enough alone. Last time I used an additive to fuel the head blew 2 days later (MR2).

Thanks in advance for any direction!

 

[Uneek]

I would start with the least expensive test first.

Try rotating the tires front and back, if it stops, it's a wheel balance issue. If it persists, then I would get an alignment inspection and have it aligned if neccessary. I'm not a mechanic, but if it's the tie-rod, I believe you grab it and check for excessive play.

My first guess it's probably a wheel balancing issue.

 

[JeremyH]

Since you mentioned that it does it when accelerating and coasting, it doesnt sound like a drivetrain issue. I would start by having your wheels balanced and rotated.

Unless you are having fuel consumtion issues, I would not use Seafoam. It works, but not really necessary unless issues are present.