Poping sound when stoping

[Cedric]

I have a 92 EB Explorer. I hear and feel a pop when i come to a stop from the right front wheel area. I have taken it to a shop but they say nothing is wrong. Anyone else experience this?

 

[DeRocha]

When your Radius arm bushings are worn you will hear and feel a pop or bump noise. This generally eminates under your feet (driver and/or passenger side). Normally it is the passenger side that goes first (Heat from the CAT causes the premature failure).

 

[Cedric]

Thanks DeRocha! But I have no idea what a Radius Arm Bushing is. Is this somthing serious that I should have looked at right away or can it wait a bit?

Thanks

 

[jtf_broncoii]

it can wait a bit. it should not ware tires irregular and it is not to unsafe like other steering and susp parts.

 

[DeRocha]

Your front axle is a called a TTB (twin Traction Beam). It is braced against the frame by a radius arm bracket (1 per side). In the picture below (right side) the Radius arm passes through a frame bracket. The Radius arm bushing is located behind the large 3" diameter silver washer. This bushing acts like a shock absorber to help isolate impacts. When the bushing gets worn the radius arm will no longer fit snugly thus causing bump sounds and feelings. It is not a critical issue.. IMO (In my opinion) I would put worn RA bushings in the same category as worn shocks.

 

[shade3]

nice explanation, and nice pic!!!!

is that your ride?

 

[DeRocha]

nice explanation, and nice pic!!!!

is that your ride?

Thanks, and yes that is my ride. In the pic below you can easily see the Radius Arms and their relative positions. I had removed and restored the suspension last year. All the parts were coated in POR-15. This stuff goes on like paint, but is 50+ times more durable.

 

[metstalker]

i have this also could i replace it my self or do i need special tools

 

[DeRocha]

i have this also could i replace it my self or do i need special tools

You should search for Radius Arm threads. They will give you an idea of the various methods and tools required to successfully complete this job. If you've never done this type of work before I would rate it a solid 8+ (on a scale from 1 to 10).