Front end clunking when turning left-right

[VirtualExplorer]

Im a new owner of a 92 explorer XLT I have a problem when i am stopped and turn my stering wheel left or right i hear a loud clunking noise from the front end

Can antone diagnose this problem for me our if i would be able to fix it my self

Thanks for the help

Virtual Explorer

 

[zebrex]

more than likley radius arm bushings. very common problem. you can fix oyur self it requires about 30 bucks and quite a bit of time.

good link to get you started.
explorer maintenance

 

[VirtualExplorer]

where is that located and what tools are required?

 

[zebrex]

the radius arms are the long beams that run from the front axle back to the frame. (tey run parallel to the frame) the bushing is the big donut looking thing it seperates the radius arm from the mounting bracket.

you need a complete set of basic hand tools and a grinder or drill. a friend with torch works best but a drill will get the job done.

click on the link I gave in the first reply and scroll down till you get to radius arm bushings. it will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about them.

 

[urbanistic]

more than likley radius arm bushings. very common problem. you can fix oyur self it requires about 30 bucks and quite a bit of time.

good link to get you started.
explorer maintenance

Now thats what I like, excellent link man, I had no idea that site was out there. Im going to photograph my radius arm replacement which I am doing tomorrow.

 

[Nuggethead 420]

I have done radius arm bushings before a bit of a pain but very nice and different ride when your done.

 

[urbanistic]

Well that clicking is gone, definitely replace the stock bushings and brackets with new ones. The old brackets opened up on my truck almost a half inch in diameter, geez. One support cup on the bracket was oval... no good.
The dealers bushings are still the hollow ring version. That is what is causing the problem in the first place. Its not strong enough for the bushing and it cracks and smashes letting the bushing bounce and move in the bracket, eventually wears away the bushing to bare metal. You cant see it without disassembly.


I replaced my good side and I already airhammered off my rivets. Tomorrow morning Im replacing the bracket, so I can photo the steps. Pretty easy.

Im also doing the sway arm bushings tomorrow.

 

[zebrex]

I welded up the wallered out support cups and then ground it down till it was round a pretty. good as new

 

[urbanistic]

I would inspect that after a few weeks. From what I understand, the bracket is punched a particular way for strength. I bought new ones, 35 bucks for both with all the bolts.

I replaced the bushings and brackets on both sides, sorry I forgot to photograph. Email me if you want pics of the job done. Took only 3 hours to do both sides.

 

[Tony H]

Zebrex, is that link no longer available? It wont open for me.

 

[falls guy]

Hey there vertual explorer! Definately check your bushings but it could be a number of other problems in your front end. You should check your tie rods and the rest of your steering components as well. They would cause more of an imediate safety concern. I'm an hour drive south of you if you ever need any help, or lets get together for a trail runsometime this season. I know a few good hills and trails around here. Midas is usaully an awsome place for a free estimate on front end work. They'll let you know what you need.