Squeaky squeaky

[zachattack721]

So I've got an 02' Sport that I adore. However, anytime I encounter the slightest bump on the road it sounds like my truck is a giant dog toy. I can't travel on any rock or oil road without the thing squeaking to high heaven. I'm hoping this can be solved with a little grease in the right places. If anyone's got an idea of what needs to be done to put and end to this squeakery, I'd appreciate your input.

 

[swshawaii]

Check the front and rear sway bar frame bushings for wear and grease if needed. Spray penetrant to test.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=300402

Also inspect the body mount bushings for deterioration. 2001-03 Sports have five locations on each side.
All are made of foam except for the front radiator supports. Search the 1995-01 sub forum, many posts.
http://www.agcoauto.com/content/news/p2_articleid/183

 

[zachattack721]

Ah thank you, that's a great walk through. I've heard a lot about those things on the forum so it was only a matter of time. I appreciate the insight, would you recommend a specific brand as far as replacements go?

 

[swshawaii]

Check them first before replacing. You can also spray water where the sway bar contacts the bushings and push the bumper while listening for squeaks. I prefer polyurethane bushings like Energy Suspension or Prothane over thermoplastic rubber such as Moog because of their enhanced feel and durability, although poly is much more prone to squeaking if not lubed periodically, especially in colder temps. Keep in mind 2001-03 Sports have the same front end as the 2001-05 Sport Trac when ordering parts. Use the crescent wrench method to measure the sway bar. There are poly kits that also include end links. If the frame bushings are worn there's a good chance the OEM end links may not be far behind. I'll post the info after you measure the bushings. Also, have you checked lower and upper ball joints and control arm bushings? Squeaks "usually" occur where rubber contacts metal.