Hello all:

I have a problem that surfaced recently and wanted some opinions. I have a 2003 Sport Trac 4x4 V6 (approx 91K). For about the past week, I have noticed a thump that appears to be coming from the driver's side front tire when turning to the right. While turning, it is a continuous thump that sounds akin to going over speed bumps. It happens at various speeds, but only when turning to the right. I have not noticed any vibrations or anything like that.

A more telling sign that there is a significant issue is that I have noticed the truck doesn't want to turn to the right at low speeds in 4 wheel high. We had some snow and ice recently and when I was pulling into the parking lot at work in 4wd, I had to hit the gas to make the truck complete a right hand turn. I have since duplicated this issue on a dry surface at low speed in 4 wheel high.

Does this sound like a bad CV joint? Any other thoughts as to what it could be? Again, I have no growling or squealing that I would associate with a bad bearing, and no noticeable problems turning to the left or driving straight.

I look forward to your thoughts.

 

Sounds like the CV joint to me.

 

Well...I was fooled. I had a relative put my truck on a rack Saturday and found out that the hub assembly was shot. He was able to order the part through his commercial account at AutoZone which saved me $30 bringing the total price to $181.00. I really thought it was the CV joint but I'm glad I had him inspect it.

Live and learn. Thanks for the reply marragtop.