Technical Front End Clonk

[widemouthfrog]

I've developed a nearside front end 'clonk' on my Multi.

The rack has recently been reconditioned and new track rod ends fitted. The brake calipers have aslo been done. Both lots were sent off to professional outfits and they seem to have amde a very good job. Both drop links have been replaced with new. The car recently had an MOT and didn't fail or come back with any advisories.

We've just had it up on a ramp and given everything a really good check over. Everything's tight, all the wishbone joints are tight as a ducks' derriere, strut tops look sound, springs are in one piece and seated properly.

Yet as soon as I set off down the road, I get a clonking when going over undulations, drop kerbs etc. It's not a really solid thump like you'd get from an engine or gearbox casting bottoming out, nor is it a tinny metal sound like you'd get from the stone guards on a brake disc. I thought it might have been the battery tray hitting the wing (it's that kind of noise), becuase I've recently had that out, shot blasted and repainted it, but that too is solidly bolted back in place.

Handling seems fine. It's very taught since I had the steering rack rebuilt. Brakes are spot on (Bigg Red did a good job - I recommend them).

Any suggestions?

 

[momoe]

ARB bushes?

 

[widemouthfrog]

Tight as a gnats. I bought some new ARB bushes with the intention of replacing them, but now I've got in there and had a look, can't see any point.

It's difficult to pinpoint exactly, but from the drivers seat, the noise seems to be coming from somewhere higher up than that - around the battery/airbox/gearbox region. It's got me stumped! My daughter was pointing in the same direction when she was sat in the NSF passenger seat.

 

[turbo_pib]

Exshaust flexi pipe knocking on subframe?
Had similar issue with my multi and replaced antiroll bar links and track rod ends (all worn parts anyway) and altrough drove better still had annoying knock...or maybe something is loose around wiper motor area??

 

[momoe]

Have you checked the engine/gearbox mounts rubbers and the n/s shock absorber assembly/top turret?
Running out of ideas here, but I do empathise as it would drive me garritty not knowing.

 

[disgusted]

I've just had the two anti roll bar drop link thingys replaced for the MoT. Much less clunky at the front and the steering is now soooooooo smooth.


Suspension joints in general seem to be "consumables" on the Multipla. My other cars don't seem to wear them out at all.

 

[Snoo]

The thing about the ARB's is it's not an up and down movement that makes the noise. It's a lateral movement. Sit next to one of the front wheels and pull the roll bar back and forth. You should be able to assess if this is a possible contributor.