[wayra2]

Having problems with a popping noise in the front end. I haven't been able to reproduce it at will. It occurs at very low speeds (like backing/entering the driveway) and most of the time when turning the wheel (although it has occured while backing out straight.) It only pops once per manouver. I have raised the front end with the wheels off of the ground and turned the steering wheel from one extreme to the other?not able to produce problem.

57,000 miles

Thanks in advance for any suggestions?

 

[wayra2]

I lubed up the sway bar bushings really good a few days and the problem is still as bad. Is there any chance that the lower ball joints could be bad. I have already replaced the upper ball joints.

On another happy note?while on the interstate yestersay, my hood latch decided to open. The hood flew up like a sail. Needless to say, I'll be needing a new hood also. :x

Thanks!

 

[wayra2]

Could the lower ball joints be what's causing the popping noise in the fron end?

 

[wayra2]

Re: Steering flange

Greg, I lube every nipple I can as well :lol: but this is a steering collumn issue I think. There's a TSB on it I believe. The clunk is caused by the flange plate not lubricated enough. IMO

Bill

If this were the cause, would the vehicle clunk when turning the wheel with the wheels not touching the ground (as if the vehicle were on a jack?)

I have the FSM. Where's this "flange plate" located?