wasvette

I think the answer is yes but want to make sure - I'm trying to narrow down a clunk when turning left - it's not the upper strut mount for sure. Is it ok to disconnect the links from the strut and drive mildly to see if the clunk is gone?

Thanks in advance!

ps I have no idea but my next step is ball joints since I have 164,000 miles

Sam Strano

You can.... Just remember the car will be prone to oversteer if you drive it all hard quickly. For testing purposes trying to track down a noise, go for it. I never recommend it on a daily basis (sorry drag racers).

wasvette

Thanks Sam - hitting the road now

wasvette

Sam - what do you think the clunk is? Only does it going slowly turning left. Still does it without the sway bar link connected. Right side also has a new GT500 strut mount I just installed and that wasn't the problem.

candymanjl

is the problem repeatable or just close to startup? I get a clunk up front/left that seems to be AC related. some have suggested it's the compressor. it only happens near startup typically about the time I'm cutting the wheel to get out of a parking space. makes it seem like it's a steering related thing when it's really not. it'll happen when the car isn't moving at all if I wait for it. it doesn't happen every time and it only happens once.

marcuskeeler

I see you've clocked up an impressive 160,500 Miles. I don't know what else you've had to replace over the years on the front end but I'd certainly be looking closely at the ball joints and rod ends.

wasvette

Thanks guys - candyman, it's predictable; i.e. every time you turn left - did new lcas/balljoints (gt500) and still there - doing outer tie rods soon

pascal

Jack the front of the car...
Once you have it secured, grab the tire at 3 and 9 o'clock position and wiggle it back and forth. You shouldn't have any play.
If you do, your rod end is shot.
The 6 and 12 o'clock position will check the ball join play...

With your high mileage, it could be a combo of things as well.

gmoran1469

What about for the rear tires? I noticed that I have some play side to side when I jack them up.