Technical Suspension Clunking?

[edessex]

I've had an issue for a while with quiet 'clunking' noises when driving across rough roads, and also a veering problem (the car pulls one way under acceleration, and the other under deceleration).

I changed shocks and springs all round, as the car was lowered and I wanted it back to standard ride height. The clunking and veering issues were still there, but at the time its wasn't anything major.

The veering started to get very bad, and the clunking also got louder and more frequent.

I changed the N/S front wishbone, which solved the veering issue, and also stopped any clunking noises on that side.

I then changed the O/S front wishbone, assuming that it was the cause of the clunking noises on that side. But I still have the noises!

On a smooth road I don't get any noise, but on a rough surface it sounds like something is about to fall off! It also clunks sometimes if I pull away a bit quicker than usual.

When I replaced the front shocks and springs, I re-used the old top mounts, is this likely to be the cause?

 

[johorridoh]

The steering gear can be worn out.
Check the steering linkage also.
Have someone turn the steering wheel and watch the wheels and linkages.
Top mount may be broken also.
Don´t hesitate it´s quite dangerous !

 

[edessex]

When the veering started I did suspect the steering rack, but it seems fine, no unusual hard or soft patches when pushing and pulling the steering rods.

At least the veering was cured by one wishbone though!

The old top mount looked ok, as in not fractured, when I put it back on, but would have dealt with more shocks & vibrations than most as the car was lowered...

I've now got a pair of new top mounts to go in, but wondered if it was likely to be anything else (might as well look while I'm taking it apart again)?

The front anti-roll bar is not currently fitted (need to get some new bolts), but I shouldn't think its absence would create clunks.

I'm not using the car properly yet, due to the suspension issues.

 

[maxi26]

hi there,

i had more or less the same clunking noise and feering issue when driving on gravel mostly feering occoured when on tar road.

i then replaced the rack and pinion and all was well, i am not saying its your problem but do look into it.

cheers

 

[johorridoh]

The front anti-roll bar is not currently fitted (need to get some new bolts), but I shouldn't think its absence would create clunks.

Your kidding ! Put it back on ! The clonk sound comes from the springs when they turn in the suspension strut.

 

[edessex]

Replaced the front top mounts today, the OS one was pretty chewed up, so I should think that would be the cause of the noise. I will find out on the drive home later...

Your kidding ! Put it back on ! The clonk sound comes from the springs when they turn in the suspension strut.

Why would the springs turn in the suspension strut?

There is a bearing in the top mount, but the spring itself shouldn't move in respect to the strut...

 

[johorridoh]

Well, you´re right, that mainly happens in the back when the end of the spring clamps to the hub in the retaining plate.

 

[edessex]

So a lack of anti-roll bar isn't really an issue then! lol

Think all unusual clunks and rattles are now resolved, anti-roll bar due to be refitted in the next few days.

Cheers all.