Hey guys...for a while, I've noticed that my Ex has an odd noise when driving over minor bumps like repaired potholes. It doesn't do it over larger bumps.

HArd to describe, but it's like a "slap-back" after hitting the bump. Sounds like a dull thud that's apparently coming from the right front. Sounds like the wheel is hitting the bump twice.

Anyhow, after working underneath...and checking for things that are loose, worn, etc...I found nothing. The truck has just under 41,000 miles. The only thing that seemed to be a bit off was the right front shock. I pulled them all while painting/cleaning up...and of course, each one expanded immediately. This one didn't. Once it was compressed fully..it did expand but not as quickly as the others. (In order to get back on the road, I put it back.)

So, before I start throwing parts at this truck I'm glad to have some of your thoughts. My initial thought is that this one shock is weak and isn't keeping the front wheel planted.

All that being said, I could swap the shocks side to side and see if the noise moves. But....it's a PITA to move gas shocks around so if it's thought that shocks could be the case..I'd just put new ones on. (Any recommendation?)

 

sounds like you already know the answer.
the noise would the oil and piston interacting inside the shock not the tire.

 

Take your pick on which one you want to try 1st. New shock & or sway bar link

 

If it sounds/ feels like it's hitting right under the passenger floorboard, my vote would be swaybar end link.
But obviously the shock is a goner, too.

 

Thanks guys! I'll check the sway bar end links again, but they seemed okay when I looked a week ago.

Now...I have to search the threads for the right shocks...

 

Search Bilstein 5100...

 

Check it by removal then drive to auto zone, if the noise is gone you can get one as low as $15.

 

What do you mean ?? "right shocks" they come in lefts as well..

 

Check your running board too!!! just a simple look