2004 Ranger front end - need help

[RangerDanger2]

Hey all, I have a 2004 Ranger XL 2 wheel drive, 4.0L, automatic, with clunking noises coming from the front end whenever I hit the smallest of bumps in the road. I can re-create the noise (on a smaller scale) when I rock the cab back and forth. At first I thought it might be deteriorated rubber bushing holding the stabilizer bar, but they seem to be in good shape.

The only thing I can find odd is the stabilizer bar links that attach to the lower swing arm is loose at the swing arm connection points on both sides. Is this normal?

There are bolts under the swing arm that connects to a stud that runs through the link that are hand loose. Is this normal?

If not, is there a torque specification? Is this a common problem that occurs on this suspension?

Any help is appreciated!

 

[adsm08]

Those links are known for breaking the bolts, which should be tight. I believe torque spec is "can't move, don't break it".

Get the Moog replacements with over-sized bolt. They have fewer issues. Do both sides.

 

[8thTon]

My 2004 2WD had the same issue. Someone put on aftermarket links with poly bushings - they were lose and clunked. I tightened them and it went away, plus it feels tighter now.

 

[RangerDanger2]

Interesting because after further examination I can tell the links are aftermarket. I'll be tightening them up tomorrow and I'm fairly sure it will solve the problem.

 

[8thTon]

Mine had nyloc nuts - they had been on there a little while didn't turn too easily. I used penetrating oil and took them off, cleaned things up and reassembled with antisieze compound.

 

[RangerDanger2]

I've tightened them up and still getting that clunking sound from the front end. Will be digging into the problem further on Sunday.

Wish me luck!

 

[8thTon]

That's a bummer. Good luck!