[ihc] Weekend Chores?

[Peter Ferris <binder@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Gentle People,

I've got two possibly or three questions for your perusal.

#1) Popping: I believe it's the springs, front & back.  Front is worse than
the back. As the steering wheel is turned (even parked, idling) there are
several distinctive POP's that can be heard. Some of the little retainer
clip things on the springs are loose, but still captured by the center pin.
Is this the cause?

#2) Just-A-Swayin' : Somewhere between the time I ditched the old worn 33"
Super Swamppers for brandy new 32" Goodrich AT something-or-another's, there
has been a wicked swaying of the Scout. Earlier this month, I bought new
tires, shocks, and got an alignment (I did the shocks myself), tires &
alignment happened at once at a respected tire shop chain in the area. I
requested that when the guy did an "alignment" that he check components for
wear & tear. He pronounced it all "good". Hmmm, I wonder. I can hold the
wheel straight and feel a distinct and occasionally strong swaying (left to
right, front to back - oft along a diagonal). This isn't constant, but
noticeable on acceleration, passing big trucks, cross winds, etc. New shocks
didn't really affect this problem. The guy at the tire shop called it
"scary". I thought he was talking about the usual slow meander which I've
become used to. This is a more rapid sway.  Sometimes it reminds me driving
a boat across a small wake or something. 

#3) Exhausting Problem: Yesterday I "discovered" something new in my truck.
Looking behind the front passenger side wheel, where the exhaust joins the
header, there's a "valve" thingy (is that technical enough?!). I notice it
seems to have 2 connectors of sorts - couldn't really determine if they were
for electrical connections / plug, or more for a vacuum lines (wouldn't they
melt there?). Just two small studs sticking out of the mystery valve.  The
valve never seems to move.  I've looked at it stone cold and after driving
35 miles. It's always in the same position.  There's what looks like a
little "L" tab on it. The "L" is always in the down position, never changing
90 degrees to (open or close - go to the opposite position). What's up with
this? And what do I do about it. Is this why despite carb rebuilds, new
tires, new shocks, etc; I never see my gas mileage change?! ;-) 

All hints & tips appreciated!

Happy Trails, 

--Pete