Help 99 Explorer 4WD Front End Noise

[Kit_AZ_4WD_99]

Hi Ok here is where I started - All 4 brakes and rotors, front end Driverside control arm & upper ball joint, Passenger side upper ball joint (bracket type atttached to upper control arm) Both lower ball joints and both tie rod ends replaced (outer rods) Have ALL been replaced. I have also had the alignment done. Which is good.

IT all started with a "klunking type" noise from the passenger side front end near the tire. I looked at it all and replaced everything I saw needed replacing. The noise stopped for a bit and then it returned.

Though maybe a bad tire out of balance or something. Took it to the shop tire was out of balance they re balanced it and the noise stopped for a while.

Now IT'S BACK... it starts at about 15-20 MPH and fades away at about 35-40MPH. I tried swaping out the tire to see if it was just the tire .. and thats not it. I haven't driven it on anything bumpier that a dirt road.

Today I took it for a drive when i swapped tires and switched it in to 4 high and the sound got louder. Swapped it back to 2WD and it quieted down.

When in 4 wheel drive i could feel a vibration which stopped when I switched back to 2wd no vibration thru the floor boards.

It stops when I turn or when i apply the brakes. Thought i might be the brakes sticking but I don't think thats it.

My next possibility I am thinking is replacing the outer CV boot but all 4 of the rubber boots are in good condition no dry rot or anything but that don't mean what is inside is good.

Any Ideas or possibilities of what it could be? I am about at my wits end and really don't want to take it to a shop.

Thanks,
Kit


Any

 

[swshawaii]

Many parts replaced, no mention of inspecting the front sway bar end links.
Probably the single most common front suspension failure for most Explorers.
Don't believe they are your vibration issue but are known for loud rattles. GL

http://www.moogproblemsolver.com/_pdf_En/MOOG_PS_Bulletin_25471_K7275_En.pdf

 

[swshawaii]

Also check all your brake caliper bolts.

 

[Kit_AZ_4WD_99]

Busted Lower ball joint ..

Well I checked the Sway bar. Not it. Checked the brakes bolts are just fine. Just by chance I compared the driverside to the passenger side. The lower ball joint on the passenger sie looker "flatter" than the driver side. I ran my finger around to check the rubber to check Low and behold .. Grease .. Bad Lower Ball joint. ( at Least I know how to replace it the "easy" way this time.)

Which Leads to my next question... Why would a lower ball joint bust for a Second time in less than 6 months .. other than just a defective ball joint?

Thanks,
Kit.