Do I need to replace my U-joints?

[HandyDan]

Ever since I have owned my motorhome (3 years) I have had this pesky vibration at 60mph and above.  At first it was quite severe and I just thought it was a bad balance job on the tires.  But, I had the tires rebalanced and things didn't change much.  I replaced all the shocks and it helped quite a bit, but there was still some vibration anywhere above 60.  I have just learned to live with it and it helps me keep the speed down.  Now, fast forward to last spring and I am on a trip to Branson, MO and Eureka Springs, AR in my 1999 GMC Suburban.  While going up and down and curve after curve in the hilly Ozarks my Sub started a metallic clinking sound and developed a vibration at speeds above 65.  On the way back home to the Kansas City area I was traveling on the Interstate and trying to maintain 70mph but I was getting quite a vibration almost like a wheel was unbalanced.  I took it to my mechanic and he diagnosed it to U-joints which he replaced.  All is well after that.  It got me thinking that maybe that is what is wrong with my motorhome.  Anyone have any experience in replacing those?  Many years ago, with the help of my brother, I replaced U-joints in my pickup truck but that was a lot less complicated than a 32 foot motorhome.  I'm not sure I'm up to doing this myself.

[cncsparky]

I had mine replaced a few weeks ago.  I've replaced Ujoints before and could've done these, however, a driveline shop can balance the shafts afterwards.  Mine were the non-greaseable type, had HD Spicer greaseables put in.  Cost was just shy of $200 w/balance.

http://www.classicwinnebagos.com/forum/index.php/topic,9139.msg50741.html#msg50741

[legomybago]

X2

[HandyDan]

Well, I got the U-joints replaced.  They were in need of replacement, but the pesky vibration is still there.  My next plan of attack is to replace tires, two at a time.  I'm going to get a new tire on the spare and one of the front tires and have DynaBeads put in them for balance.  Then keep trying them in different positions until I discover which is the offending tire, or until I've gone through all the locations.  I need to take on the MorRyde suspension but I am dreading that.

[circleD]

If you're replacing tires that are good but maybe bouncy you might be able to find some cheap rims and have them mounted as back ups for cheap. I do this with trailer tires. I'd rather spend $15 on a used tire at a junk yard and find an old rim to mount it on. Not pretty but gets you through.
Oh I forgot Dan, how about the A arm bushings? And does it do this on the same road or it doesn't matter what road?

[Rickf1985]

Good luck on the cheap rims! Best I found for 19.5's is 75.00 apiece! and I have to take them somewhere to be checked for straightness.