clunking sounds in suspension -- ball joints?

[mixwhit]

'03 4.0L, AT, ext cab, 2WD, 175k miles

For a while now I've been hearing some clunking sounds from underneath, presumably suspension related. It's getting worse (e.g. louder, more frequent). I hear them most when I hit a bump, or something else that bounces the truck a bit. But not every time, only some times. It almost sounds/feels like something's shifting a little bit when it happens.

Showed it to a mechanic friend, he thought it was the ball joints. He got it up on a lift to check.

In case it matters, this truck had an engine swap (for another 4.0L) about 9 months ago and the clunks have picked up since. I doubt it's related, but I suppose there could be something related to the tranny mount or something else in that procedure so thought I'd mention it.

My friend's a good guy and a ford mechanic so I'm inclined to get the ball joints replaced, but I wanted to ask here and make sure it sounds like something that could cause the clunks I'm hearing.

thx

 

[Schnot]

It's most likely sway bar end links. I would assume yours are close to the same style as on my 01 f350. If so, that's exactly how my truck acts when they wear out. You hit a bump and get a banging clunking sound from under the floor board.

Slide under there and push and pull on them. If there is play in them then that's your problem.

I doubt it's ball joints, but they are easy to check as well. Jack the front off the ground and grab the tire at 12 and 6 o clock. Wiggle the tire in and out from the top and bottom. If you have play, then the ball joints are bad.


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[Surrey]

You claim your friend is a ford mechanic, and he told you the ball joints are shot...

I would be inclined to believe him. Checking for a blown ball joint is not a difficult task, and if hes a trained mechanic he should be able to diagnose that no problem.

 

[mixwhit]

i agree the ball joints are likely on the outs, but i just looked and sure enough, schnot called it---the left side sway bar link is broken at the top (only attached to the bottom)! i'll try that first since it's cheap. i replaced the right side myself a few years ago (maybe 3) after it broke.

as i recall, last time i replaced it with the wheel on. is it worth removing the wheel or just as easy with it on?

hopefully that cures the clunk so I can save up a bit more for the ball joint replacement (that's not something i want to do myself).

 

[Schnot]

Should be able to do it with the wheel on as long as you have room to get in there with wrenches.


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[rangerparts101]

maybe check your shock bushings thay maybe worn

 

[Schnot]

maybe check your shock bushings thay maybe worn

I've had that happen before too.


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[basketranger]

My bet is body to frame bushings.