Knocking sound from driver side suspension.

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Jun 21, 2007 | 01:35 PM

nathan5603

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Knocking sound from driver side suspension.

I have a 2001 Ranger with a 2.3L and a 5 spd tranny. I have recently noticed a light knocking sound coming from suspension on the driver's side. I really noticed this when I was in a traffic jam and driving in first gear around 10 mph. It makes noise when I barley hit bumps in the road. Do you guys have any suggestions? Sometimes I feel the noise in the steering wheel too. Thanks in advance for your help. ~Nathan

Jun 21, 2007 | 01:50 PM

pgw85706

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From: Lynchburg, VA

Check your sway bar connecting links. Here's a couple threads on the topic to consider. The link is essentially a 10" long or so 5/16" bolt positioned vertically that ties each end of your front sway bar to the frame. Let us know what you find.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...highlight=link

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/5...onnecting+link

Jun 21, 2007 | 07:30 PM

nathan5603

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Thanks for you help. I checked the sway bar links and they both look good on each end. I started shaking each side of the suspension and only heard noise on one side. It was the right side. I think it might be the catalytic converter that's loose. Do you have any ideas? When should the shocks be replaced?

Jun 22, 2007 | 04:11 AM

pgw85706

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From: Lynchburg, VA

Quote:

Originally Posted by nathan5603

Nathan, If the noise is more like a rattle, check the heat shield on your muffler. A shock mounting bolt could be loose as well. The life of your shocks will of course depend on your mileage and driving style. If your shock inspection shows leaking oil, then for sure replace them. There is also the bounce test where you try and rock the truck (by maybe jumping while standing on the bumper) and see how quickly the truck dampens back to still. If it continues to bounce more than 3 times after you stopped, then the dampening fluid is likely spent and you should consider replacement. I'm sure others can offer further guidance. I just replaced the shocks on my '99 Ranger at 65k miles with good results.
Keep us posted on what you find. Pat

Last edited by pgw85706; Jun 22, 2007 at 04:13 AM.

Jun 23, 2007 | 02:33 AM

brianjwilson

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You would have to physically tighten the sway bar endlink bolts to determine anything. They can make noise like that even if they look tight (they need to be REALLY tight). Also check and tighten all of the shock mounts and such. How many miles? A common problem is also the lower balljoints.
Try having a friend bounce the truck while you are underneath (with the brake on of course). You might need to use a long handled screwdriver to pinpoint the niose. Handle side pressed to your ear while the other end is placed on various parts.