Suspension Knock

[FiZiX]

Hey guys,

This is my first post so first things first. Hi!

OK, I have a '94 auto SHO. When I'm pulling in or out of a parking space there's a loud clunk from the driver side front wheel area. This only happens when the wheel is near the lock and there is another clunk when returning to center. It happens in forward and reverse. Any ideas?

I've already done a search but couldn't come up with anything conclusive. Thanks!

 

[johndallara]

suspension noise

sounds like a broken subframe ring. These are located where the front tension strut is secured to the subrame (front left & right just behind and center to the front subframe mounts. There are several postings on welding and fixes for this problem. you may have worn out bushings, which can be replaced. if the mouting ring is separated from the subframe, it is a welding job to re-secure it.

other possibilities include the halfshaft-- not as likely (driveaxle in the front wheel drive car), as well as other bushings in the lower suspension.

I would get the front end up and look at all of the major suspension connectors. These would include the knuckle & control arm, the tension strut (subframe to knuckle), as well as the swaybar links (attached to strut) & steering rack bolts.

best of luck, re-post and let everyone know what you find.

JD

 

[SeanMc]

After I had my strut rod connectors welded, it solved a myriad of clunking problems

 

[FiZiX]

Cool, thanks for the quick replies. I'll check have to take look when it's up on jacks.

 

[93rev2sev]

Is it static? happens when the car isn't moving or dynamic? happens when the car is backing out of the space?

If its static, rule out the halfshafts and start looking at motor mounts, subframe bushings, tie rod ends, stabilizer bar links, ball joints/control arms, strut rod bushings, strut rod receiver to subframe weld, and strut mounts/bearings - in that order.

Have someone turn the wheel for you while you are up front listening - if the engine moves when the wheel is turned you need motor mounts and/or subframe bushings. Also, you can whack all the aforementioned components with a rubber mallet to induce that clunk.

If it only happens when the car is moving and you turn the wheel, then you should insert the halfshafts as a possibilty.

 

[SHO_OFF_95]

i had i problem like that, i had a strut that was broken in half
hope that might help you.