Front End Issues

[GORDON HUMMEL]

When I purchased my Newell in Jan 2008, there was a definete issue with the front end. In Feb of this year I had the Steering gear box rebuild. That fixed about 70-80% of the problem, but there was still something wrong with the right front. If I hit a bump/hole with both tires, no problem. If i did the same with the left front time, no problem. If I did the same with the right tire, the steering wheel would move quite a bit. Also, when I start out on the AM, I can hear a metalic noise, tapping/banging lets say, not grinding. This noise goes away almost immediately.
Yesterday I had the opportunity to put the coach on a machine that will usually find any problems with any suspension component. This machine lifts the front axle to put different loads on the tires, & also in this mode there are yellow pads under the tires (see picture), where you can load the tires in any direction & really stress any component.
After 40 minutes & 4 sets of eyes, couldn't find a thing.
Ended up putting a 4' crow bar through the right wheel & resting on the drum. Could find a minimal ammout of movement, probably still in spec. Took it all apart, & bearing are perfect. Put it back together. & dvove 12 miles back to the RV park & all seemed OK.
Not positive, but time will tell!
Also, over the summer I replaced the steering wheel, with an 18", as opposed to 20" std
This was a great improvement in the comfort area & I can now reach the TS lever