So I have had this low toned rattle in the front right suppension since I changed my ball joints. I was hoping it was just something that might go away, but it's getting on my nerves now. It only does it when I drive over bumps or even run over a small rut in the road.
Upon further inspection, it appears that the spring isn't sitting completely on the lower control arm on the outer most side, closest to the rotor. I don't know if it was like this before, but i don't think so. I'm wondering if I didn't tighting up that strug that goes from the lower control arm to the subframe completely, or if I may have a bent lower control arm (unlikely I think).
I can't seem to track down the problem though. I replaced the upper rubber spring bushing that goes in the upper control arm, but there is still 1/8" clearance around most of the spring's seat on the lower control arm on the outer most side. I don't know what else to do.
Just a thought check and see where the pig tail is on the bottom of the spring you may have to rotate the spring if the tail is in the back of the basket you might want to rotate it around past the front a little. Not sure but if its in the back it could be coming off the basket and chattering in the front. Just thinking out loud. Thats usually when i get in the most trouble. ;D
i would check all the bolts strut shock and even the wheel bearings.
if you cant find it youll just have to get some ear plugs. ;D
Double checked all of that a few days ago, no luck though. Something I was thinking it MIGHT be, could be the front bolt hole on the crossmember for the lower control arm. I had some issues getting the lower arm back in when I changed the balljoints and the arm was twisted forwards with the bolt at an angle towards the driver's side of the car (the threaded side point away from the passenger side). It wasn't like that for long but I am curious if it may have widened the hole enough to let the arm wiggle slightly when backwards pressure is applied to the wheel.
Dave that would makes sense. Maybe the bushing itself is worn if you havent replaced it. but like you say could be longated hole. you have me interested with i could help you find it. One of them things you just have to be their for.
When I feel the energy and have the time to pull the suspension apart on that side again, I will check. I should have done that a few days ago while I had the spring out to replace it's upper rubber pad.
Is it a loud audible clunk or something more felt through the steering wheel, or both? I had the latter after redoing my front end long ago. I found out that the bottom shock mount was little small and tightening the bolt did not squeeze the CA enough to hold it. I stuck a washer in there and never had another clunk.
I had a worn R&P cause clunks also.
Both could be replicated by bouncing the front end while the car was parked.
have u checked your rim clerance i had the same problem. ever time id hit a bump or hit the breaks my wheel weights was diging into the strout.
78txpony, I think your solution is the best bet!
jeremy, I will check that just in case, thank you soo much!
I believe it is the shock mount for one reason.....
I was driving home a couple days ago and heard something hit the bottom of the car, which sounded like a rock. After that, the knocking sound went away after hitting bumps. I thought that was nice, but at the same time worried!
Last night I looked at the passenger side just to be sure all the hardware was still there......NOT! The bottom bolt for the shock had come out!
Today, upon driving home, I scanned the road where I heard the sound and sure enough, I found the bolt, but no nut. :( The bolt's threads are pretty trashed and I will be lucky if I can clean them up, I will try to with a tap and die set though. Now I need a nut....
There is a yard that I visit now and then for parts, but I'm not sure if the two Pintos there have the front suspension still on them. I will try to stop by tomorrow to get a replacement bolt and nut, but if not, does someone here have an extra I can get from them?
i dont know but just the other day some one posted the exact size. Im purty sure it was a 7/16 bolt cant remember the length but you could get that measurement. Stop at lowe and get a grade 8 7/16 by the correct length and you should be in buisness.
Got the bolts for $5 for the pair. Also put a shim between the shock on the inside of the control arm. Thanks for everyone's help, it's nice and quiet now! :)
sweet, glad to hear you got her fixed Dave.