suspension problem

[posmindset]

I have a 2002 explorer Eddie Bauer 4W v8 and have a problem with the front left suspension.

When driving over any bump, even the smallest, I hear what sounds like a dry metal spring flexing. it's loud.

Is that most likely a strut or what? can it be lubed to see if maybe it just needs maintenance?

any thoughts would help.

thanks

 

[ThePhoenix]

ball joints...mine sounds like that. its like a grating metal squeak? try lubing it for a quick fix... they are rather pricey to fix the balljoints right (about $700)

or just turn up the radio like i do for now

 

[posmindset]

thanks Chaz, is there a fitting to lube that or do you just gotta slop it on the ball joint?

thanks again for the help

 

[ThePhoenix]

Not sure if they have zerks. I have been too lazy to check but a mechanic told me he could inject some grease into the boot....but I don’t see why it wouldn’t have a zerk. its sooooo annoying. like a creaking bed, ifyouknowwhatImean

 

[posmindset]

thanks again,

Yeah annoying, I went to locate the noise with the vehicle off, went to the front left tire, put pressure on the hood there and started rocking the vehicle and man it was loud.

I didn't think it was that loud when I was driving, at least now I know why everyone was looking at me funny when I would go over speed bumps..

lol

 

[ThePhoenix]

it such an embarrassment for a newer vehicle... let me know what you do

 

[ThePhoenix]

ps...read this thread
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=188225&page=10

 

[posmindset]

will do, callin my buds to fins some ramps to get under there and we'll get at it

 

[jrford]

id vote for swaybar bushings spray some WD40 on them and see if it goes away, it will only work for a week if it does. Otherwise swaybar endlinks? Ball Joints too if those are not it.

 

[ThePhoenix]

sway bar bushings are more of a rattling chain kinda sound

 

[jlsparky7]

My guess is ball joints.

 

[ThePhoenix]

I hit my entire suspension with white lithium grease in a spray bottle this weekend...squeaks are gone...for now.

 

[Balla7733]

i had the same problem. when i took my explorer to the ford dealership for an oil change and they lubed up my ball joints and bushings. they were fine for all of two weeks and now the problem is back... ya gotta love the georgia heat