Clunking from Front End
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Freshman User
Joined: Mar 2003
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Clunking from Front End
I am getting a very distinct clunking in the front end on the passenger side when going in reverse and then hitting the brakes upon release it clunks. I thought that it must be the brakes or calipers but upon inspection all seems well. I also noticed that it does this when entering my driveway with the wheels turned to the left and upon hitting the curb it emits the same clunk. Can some one help me diagnose the culprate? I am still learning when it comes to suspensions.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 467
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From: northwest
maybe a really loose wheel bearing? ball joint? tie rod end?
lift the front ned of the van and try to wiggle the wheels in both vertical and horizontal directions.
if there is play, or "clunking" only side to side, its probably the tie rod end, get under the van and grab the tie rod and try to wiggle it around.
if its both side to side and up and down its the bearing. just re-pack it and snug it to the appropriate specs. a no-cost fix!
and lastly i think if its just loose when grabbed at the top and bottom of the wheel and wiggled, mine did this when my upper ball joint went out, and that wasnt the most fun repair I ever did. but it was worth saving the $200 they wanted in labor to do it my self! took all day, and required a torch. but I'd do it again!
lift the front ned of the van and try to wiggle the wheels in both vertical and horizontal directions.
if there is play, or "clunking" only side to side, its probably the tie rod end, get under the van and grab the tie rod and try to wiggle it around.
if its both side to side and up and down its the bearing. just re-pack it and snug it to the appropriate specs. a no-cost fix!
and lastly i think if its just loose when grabbed at the top and bottom of the wheel and wiggled, mine did this when my upper ball joint went out, and that wasnt the most fun repair I ever did. but it was worth saving the $200 they wanted in labor to do it my self! took all day, and required a torch. but I'd do it again!
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
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From: Miami
Clunking Front End
Freshman User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 43
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From: Surrey, BC Canada
JM. The problem you have is common. It is the "upper Control Arm Bushing"
Right side more common to go due to most manhole & pot holes on the right side of the road. Very time consuming and a real pain to replace.
I do most of my own repairs but this one was worth the $150.(CAN) including $12 worth pf parts. The buttom rubber bushing will be fine, look how huge it is compaired to the upper one. Good luck. Andrew . Surrey BC
Right side more common to go due to most manhole & pot holes on the right side of the road. Very time consuming and a real pain to replace.
I do most of my own repairs but this one was worth the $150.(CAN) including $12 worth pf parts. The buttom rubber bushing will be fine, look how huge it is compaired to the upper one. Good luck. Andrew . Surrey BC
