Wierd sound

[texas02explorer]

I have an 02 XLT and when I go over a good size bump or dip the front makes a strange sound. I dont really know how to explain what it sounds like.
Does anyone have any thoughts to what it may be? Thanks.

 

[sethmorgan]

Sway bar bushings?

 

[workman482]

Listing

Front suspension components most likely to make strange noises are:

Front sway bar bushings/links
Coil springs
Strut cartridges
And CV shafts for 4x4

All these you should be able to tell with a visual inspection.
You will actually see what appears to be the links separating from the lower "a" arm if they're badly worn.

When the coil spring breaks it usually does it in the upper or lower "saddle", or where the spring rest. Search for broken springs or strus and youll find post on the site with pictures.

Best visual for strut cartridges is when they start to leak. They will seep onto the lower portion of the strut.

CV shaft boots will usually wear out and break before the actual shaft bearings do.

Hope that helps.

 

[matt0248]

Add ball joints to the list of possibilities.

 

[rocco123]

ou guys may not want to hear this, but my "strange sound" ended up being a right forward body mount. The only option is OEM parts. Confirmed that was the cause as it was metal on metal worn on the side.

 

[texas02explorer]

When I took it to a shop last year the ball joints where replaced but the sound came back. I look at the other stuff thanks for the info.

 

[JCR]

Rocco123, Was your strange noise a loud metal sounding squeak that happened when you went around a long left hand corner or hit a pot hole with the right side of your Explorer? I am having an issue with a noise at these times and we can not track it down. How did you determine it was a body mount?