Suspension clunk????

Chris&Adam · Post by **Chris&Adam** » Sun Mar 05, 06 4:35 pm

Hi Guys,
I have noticed that there is a definite"clunk" on the drivers side when I fail to negotiate the many potholes, no matter how small, we now have in nearly every road in the country. On the rare pieces of smooth tarmac everything seems ok. Sometimes the clunk can be more pronounced when turning at the same time. Any ideas? My son and I have looked underneath and everything seems to be "in place".
Car is 69 Roadrunner. Car is due for MOT and I don't want examiner to see something that a blind man could spot at 50 yards!!!! Many thanks in advance for any help you can give.

Alex · Post by **Alex** » Sun Mar 05, 06 4:41 pm

Bottom ball joint

Dave-R · Post by **Dave-R** » Sun Mar 05, 06 4:48 pm

I agree with Alex and you should check that first. However if it is that or not that check the other suspension joints as well because if one is that badly worn chances are the rest need replacement too.

The list to check is;

UCA and LCA ball joints.
LCA and UCA pivot bushings.
LCA strut bushings.
Tie rod ball joints.
Pitman arm ball joint.
Idler arm ball joint and pivot.

May as well check the wheel bearing adjustment while you are on.

TrevD · Post by **TrevD** » Sun Mar 05, 06 4:48 pm

or inner pivot of lower arm

Alex · Post by **Alex** » Sun Mar 05, 06 5:05 pm

Idler arm will most likely be gone as well, thye usually are in my experience

Chris&Adam · Post by **Chris&Adam** » Sun Mar 05, 06 5:22 pm

Many thanks Alex, Dave and TrevD. You have all given me and my son lots to look at!!!!!! When checking the joints is it just a case of "getting hold" and see if there is any play or is it necessary to jack up the front end and use a pry bar???????
Cheers lads.

Dave-R · Post by **Dave-R** » Sun Mar 05, 06 5:26 pm

Get the front end up in the air and eyeball/push shove/lever. Everything you can think of.

Dave-R · Post by **Dave-R** » Sun Mar 05, 06 5:27 pm

Check to see if there is any movement front-rear of the control arms. Esp. the lower.

Ashley · Post by **Ashley** » Sun Mar 05, 06 5:35 pm

Mine had this problem last year, it was the top ball joint in the uca.
Replace that no more knocking

Chris&Adam · Post by **Chris&Adam** » Sun Mar 05, 06 8:23 pm

Thanks for all the helpful replies guys. My son is working on all the above as I am writing this. Suppose I had better show willing and give him a hand. Thanks again.