USMC6217

While doing a simple brake pad change this weekend, i took off the drivers front wheel and found that the sway bar link was not connected to the wheel assy, to be honest i have no idea how long it has been like this because i havent had the wheel off in quite some time. I did notice the wheel pulling to the left on certain road imperfections before but i took this as bad tires. Anyway back to my issues, after finally getting the link seating back on the bushing and getting the wheel back on I now heard a loud clunking coming the drivers side. This started on Saturday and got worse yesterday with what felt like really loose steering, if that makes any sense. The sound doesnt change with speed or direction of turn. I havent had a chance to get it back on stands but any thoughts? I was thinking it could be the tie rod or the wheel bearing, if it is the tie rod is there any easier way to determine the inner from outer one being the problem other than disconnecting the outer from the hub assy and seeing if it holds in the up position? I dont think it would be a CV b/c any bump i hit you can hear the rattle as well as driving straight. Any help would be awesome as the car is not driveable and taking it in is really not an option.

Lost Again

Re-check the end link.

Then check the "bar to frame" bushings.

USMC6217

ok the end link was loose again, going to replace the that one, but while im doing it should i do the passenger side also? I found a great deal on raybestos links for 10 bucks each. I looked at the bushings and the bushings looked good but when i grab it and gave it a shake on the drivers side i had some play but when i did it on the passenger side it was stiff, no play. Would that be in idicative of a bad drivers side bushing? Could it have damaged the sway bar any form not being connected? Sorry for all the questions, first time having to deal wiht factory suspension issues.

Lost Again

You can start with the one side and "see" what you have from there.

Again check the "bar to frame" bushings...these are in a "U" shaped clamps that hold the bar to the body.....follow the bar from one side to the other and you will know what I mean.

The bar should be fine.....no worries there.

Last - off topic. I just noticed your user name, bad on my part. Thank you for your service. My oldest son was once a "brother" to you before his death. All of those who serve are special to me but those from the USMC have and even higher place....just me.

USMC6217

my condolences to you and your family about your son, and thank you for the comment, anyone who has served will always be a brother to me.

I checked the bushings when i was under there and they looked good, they werent splitting or dry rotted so i can only assume that they are still good. The bar was no where near the frame. i found a great deal on raybestos links for 10 bucks each, normaly like 70, so i went ahead and picked up both.