i was told a while ago that my ball joints need to be replaced. that was a couple months ago and i'm going to be replacing them next week sometime when i have time. i noticed recently that when the roads are bad or when i hit a bump the blazer (95 4 door)wants to steer either left or right depending on how i hit the bump and gets better after a minute or two. is this because the ball joints are really bad or could it be a loose/damaged steering part? am i stupid to be traveling with this problem?

thanks,
JPK

 

The ball joints could be the culprit, but anytime you replace a suspension or steering component it's a good idea to thoroughly check out the rest of the system. In other words, if it's been long enough for some to wear out, others could be due, also. I would try to limit my driving (especially highway) as much as possible until the repair.

 

i'll check the rest of it out when i have it up off of the ground. what should i be looking for?

 

Loose parts. The tie rods should not move at all, when you try to wiggle the wheel (12/6 and 3/9), you should not see any play in any of the components.