Hey Folks,

Two Problems, hopefully y'all have some suggestions.

The first has to do with my engine - specifically a noise it's been making. It does it rarely, but enough for me to notice. Occassionally - especially when I drop the pedal, my engine will make a groaning sound - though not overly too low of a pitch, and it will remain even when I release the pedal and let the vehicle idle/roll along. I can get rid of it just as quickly be offering just the slightest amount of throttle. Any thoughts?

The other problem is in relation to the suspension and the noise I'm getting from that end - specifically the rear end. I think it's the passenger side. It's a rattle of some sort, mainly when I hit potholes and what not. I drive along a few rough roads on my way to work, but even small bumps and such when I'm cruising at normal speeds seem to reward me when some sort of ... rattle out of my suspension. Any suggestions here? I'll be having my brakes changed rather soon, so just thought I'd ask some questions so I'd know what to look for.

Thanks,
CST

Don't know about the engine noise...but the other rattle might be the catalytic converter shield (very common) or the radius arm bushing. Both of these fail quite often because of their closeness to the exhaust and the heat generated. Good luck.

I was wondering if it could possibly be the bushing. I remember seeing something on Ebay once about... polyurathene (I think this is right...?) bushings for the Explorer. Is such a purchase woth it? I plan on doing some off-roading with my truck, just curious.

Could be a sway bar bushing, bad shock. Or what he said above. When were your shocks replaced last?

Honestly? I haven't a clue, but I bet it's been a while.