[TJRON]

I couldn't believe something so simple as tires would cause the problems...

.....and no one on the JU technical grounds ever mentions how important it is.

William, that is just not true. Blaine and I and a zillion others usually mention it within the first 5 post as the first thing to check. I think several months ago I suggested you trade wheels with a friend to make "sure"........
You need to tell the moron that is balancing your tires that a check for bent rims is part of the balancing process.
Ron