Ok, have a 2004 GC with 80k, and I have recently replaced the sway bar bushings and the links. I still have a clunking noise over small bumps at slower speeds, and I can feel it through the steering wheel. I tried the search function and couldn't find the answers. Anybody help? Is there a way to test the struts for the noise - that was next guess.
s38638i
04-12-2009, 11:01 AM
the noise is probably you inner or outer tie rods on your rack and pinion. you can jack up the vehicle and grab hold of the tire and move it side to side slightly and see if there is play. your strut bearing on the top of your sturts could be clunking also but this only happens when turing the wheel lock to lock, to check this just start the vehicle and turn the wheel lock to lock and feel both of the strut springs and see if you feel a popping/clunking noise, then you will need strut bearings.
speedworks
04-12-2009, 06:20 PM
So I figured it out. About 12k ago (1.5 yrs), I had the right side link replaced. Yesterday I replaced the left side and the sway bushings. After many tries to narrow down the noise I was finally able to replicate it while not moving the car, and believe it or not, it was the right side link! Should these only last 12k? I replaced it and all is right again. These things really suck.
Ted928
04-12-2009, 09:08 PM
I was going to guess that the link nut loosened-up. That has happened to me twice.
See this rant for more info on links:
http://www.dodgetalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=240420
eurocars
04-18-2009, 06:59 AM
I just read this thread and I was gonna say that the first think I would look at when you get clunks on bumps is the sway bar links. These seem to wear out quick. The aftermarket replacement one are not any better as far as longevity.
I've replaced the links on my 96 GC 2x now. If I recal the origs were plastic.
