!ODD! Squeaking noise 98 XLT 5.0 AWD

[Smuffy]

It just started today. And got loud QUICK. It sounds like a blown strut but a ton louder and it not only squeaks when the suspension compresses, but also when the wheels turn. Now I figure when the wheels turn, weight is shifted and it would sqeak a little, but it continues the entire way. If I turn the wheel all the way to the left or right, it continues the entire time it's turning. Also, when stationary, if I rock the truck up and down it squeaks like a shock would. Is there any bushing in the front end (Sorry, forgot to mention this is the front, drivers side) that rotates both ways?

Normally I'd wait until I had torn it apart to ask, but my schedule is cramped until Thursday when my vacation starts. Only problem is I won't be able have parts for friday sat or sun unless I get it somewhat narrowed down between now and wed. so Ideas of things to look for would really help. Then I can take the wheel off real quick and inspect.

Anyhow, enough rambling, thanks for your time!

 

[Four0Sport]

hmmm.. radius arm bushings maybe, mine squeaked when you would blow on my explorer, it was bad... braking, turning, just sittin in the damned thing would do it. somethin ya might wanna check, explorers, rangers, broncos, hell even full size fords have notorius radius arm bushing problems. im pretty sure the radius arms were still used in 98. oh, replacement is a *****. no other way to say it, sorry.

 

[smiley1]

I had some problems with squeaks in other vehicles. I would apply some rubber safe lube to bushings and it would go away.

 

[IAmTodd]

You do not have radius arms, so that can be ruled out. My guess would be the ball joints. Check to see if you have the greaseable type. If you do, then pumping some grease in may cure the problem. If not, replacing would be the only option. That is the only thing I can think of that is afffected both by suspension movement and steering.

 

[Garth]

I say its the ball joint also. You can do the pry bar test on it.

 

[Smuffy]

pry bar test?

 

[IAmTodd]

I would suggest taking it to an alignment shop and see what they have to say. You'll have to take it to one anyways. It was $480 to get my lowers replaced. Most was labor though

 

[Garth]

Use the bar to test the joints for motion. Should be none if the joints are ok. The lower ball joints are easy and you can borrow the tool from autozone.

 

[Smuffy]

Uppers and lowers, I take it either will need to be pressed in and out? Or do you absolutely HAVE to get the whole unit? And No, (the uppers at least) don't have grease fittings.

I'll try to get a better look at it later if it's still not 10 below. I tried to get into my storage locker to get my jack and tools and my lock was frozen. I kicked it and the weather cover fell off?!!? Lot of good that did.

 

[Garth]

Press the lower in and out but you will have to be patient with the upper, bolts are to get out and in on the driver side.