BAM!! Topping out my shocks?

[sbrawner]

After I lifted the front about 1.5" on my 95, I noticed a VERY unfriendly noise when going over "ripple" bumps (like the ones made by big rigs at intersections). It sounds like something is whacking the chassis or floorboard. I'm guessing maybe it's the stock shocks topping out, but I really have no idea. I remember Dr. Bob saying something about weird mushroom-shaped bushings somewhere in the front suspension going bad. Anyone have any insight?

Thanks,
Scott

 

[bachelor25]

Scott,

Unless your front shocks are blown, I don't think they are the source of your problem. I've raised my '96 2" in the front and 2.5" in the rear and max out my suspension frequently when off roading and have never had a problem with the shocks maxing out, except when really flexing the suspension. In a basic situation like a speed bump, if you're getting a solid bang, I would check and make sure that your drivetrain components are fine, and if it's in 4WD check your front CV joint angle, it may be too extreme because of the torsion lift, and at a bad angle when moving (over the bump).

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Cheers,

Andrew B.
1996 Ford Explorer 4x4 (slightly modified)
BC, Canada

 

[sbrawner2]

Check out my post on the discovery and solution.