Popping sound from front end

[dmjarosz]

I hear (and feel) a popping sound from somewhere in the front end when I turn the steering wheel point to point. So far, I have replaced both struts, strut bearings/mounts, ball joints, sway bar links, sway bar bushings, and tie rod ends and was hoping one of these would take care of the problem but its still there. Anyone have andy clue what it could be? Im starting to lean towards the universal link between the steering column and the power steering rack. Does that part even exist and is it easy to replace?

 

[Mr Anonymous]

Did you replace the inner tie rods or just the outer ends? Could also be a loose rack nut or a loose forward bolt on one of the a-arms.

 

[dmjarosz]

Both the inner and outter tie rods were replaced. I checked both rack nuts and they are tight.. I'll check the forward A-arm bolts tomarrow.

 

[Orvbaby]

Isn't the popping sound under your foot frequently a worn sub frame bushing?

"edit"
Sure...now I see it.


"Dave
1999 Black, gray int.
Welded, transgo'd, ALSFB3" midpipe to dual 2.5" to f'master super 40's
Cobra Calipers, S/S brake hoses
Infinity speakers, Audiobahn sub, JBL & RF amp
custom ipod interface
phenolic spacers"

could it still be loose at that junction....allowing some movement

 

[dmjarosz]

I though it might be that too.. The problem I have with diagnosing this thing is that the noise isnt there when the car is lifted in the air and I cant get under the car to feel around when its on the ground.. I think its time to invest in a set of ramps

 

[allan greyling]

i would try the subframe bushing if they have never been done not that expensive and i have heard a lot better than stock just dont forget the new bolts as well. Mine is doing the same thing and will be replaced in the near future.

 

[medgraphsho]

Look into the control arms too and see if they are loose, mine was loose a little on the right side, went to midas for a tire rotation and they tightened it up, no more noise

 

[dmjarosz]

So i put the car on ramps today and its not the control arms, loose rack bolts or subframe bushings... If I put my hand on the rack, I can feel the popping when someone turns the steering wheel. Is this a bigger problem that has something to do with the internals in the rack?

 

[medgraphsho]

if you end up needing a rack, I have a used spare one just laying around. You can have it for cheap. The lines are real nice, no rust