Please help!!
this may be a stupid question but my 1997 F150 XLT v6 does not track straight. I have drove it 200k miles (284k on the dial) and this problem may have happened slowly not sure. I was thinking it was because I had it overloaded with tool boxes, rack, & work parts, but I've completely unloaded it and took it out for a drive. I have to concentrate on keeping it between the lines!(yes without even a single drink) It has nice Michelins LTX (aprox 75% tread left)and has had an alignment. No funny noises or suspension clunks or squeaks. And does not seem to be slop in the steering wheel.

Any suggestions would be great!! I love this ole truck! Thank you

 

The alignment you had may not have been done properly, but there are several things that can cause poor tracking.

You don't say if the problem is a constant pull to one side, or if it seems to "wander" all over. If the problem is a "wander", the castor is probably not correct. If the front tires are wearing improperly, either on the inside edge or the outside edge, the camber is incorrect.

Then, if it just "pulls", the problem could still be alignment but it might be a low tire pressure or even a dragging brake.

When it was aligned, was it overloaded with all your tools? And, at your truck's age, the steering linkage or other front end components may well be worn. Is there play in the steering wheel before the tires turn?

- Jack