sjayp26

Hi All,

I am new to this forum and have read some very useful information. Maybe someone can help me with a problem I am having with a clunking noise from the front end of my 2000 Windstar SEL. I will start by saying that I have replaced the outer tie rods due to wear. I also replaced the front struts (Monroe Sensa trac) with the mounting kit and the rear shocks also. The sway bar bushings and end links (AutoZone) were replaced about 2 years ago (7K usage). The van has 99.5K miles and runs well except for the clunking noise when you drive. It does not make any noise while standing still and rocking it up and down.

I read on the forum that I should also check the sub frame bushings and the strut rod bushings. I brought the van to different mechanics to check for the noise and they all say different things. No one mentions the sub frame bushings or the strut rod bushings. One guy even told me that I should replace again the sway bar bushings and end links with OEM.

I am lost as what to do next to get rid of the clunking noise. By the way I haven't gotten a wheel alignment as of yet. I am waiting to get this problem fixed before doing the alignment.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions, photos (strut rod bushing loc.) or comments.

Bert

Whend o you get the clunking noise? Over bumps, turning the wheel, all the time, cold, hot? Small bumps, constant or only on bumps? Rythemic?

sjayp26

All the time, constant when I am driving. Smooth and bumpy roads both. all weather types.

thanks

Bert

So going straight down the road on a fairly smooth road it makes the noise without hitting big bumps? It's not rythemic? In other words, like every turn of the road wheel. Sorry to ask so many questions but without hearing it, it makes a tough call.

sjayp26

Not a problem about asking questions. A clunk,clunk noise as i drive or as i slow down while coasting. More noise downhill than uphill.

Bert

If it's a steady rythemic sound, it could be an axle or somthing in a wheel hub. That's if it goes faster as the speed increases. Might be a good idea to have an alignment guy ride with you too see what he thinks.

sjayp26

Thanks rtg143, I am going to get the wheel alignment today. I will let him also check it first. I will let you know how it goes. Hopefully the problem is solved by then.

sjayp26

I finally figured out the problem. It was my left sway bar end link that was defective. It did not look damaged from the outside, but after changing it the clunking noise went away. So anyone who has the same problem as I did, check your end links first. They are easy and cheap to replace.

Bert

Thanks for the update, I'm sure it will help someone. Glad you got it fixed.