So I have had this clunking noise for a while, whenever I drive over a bump with my front passenger side tire. At first I thought it was the strut mount or strut so I built brand new ones, still had the noise. Next I replaced all of the engine mounts, noise better but still there. I checked the brake pad clips, they are installed although the caliper on the passenger side is a little loose but I dont think I can do anything about that... Anyhow, I changed out the control arms, bushing, ball joints and outer sway bar bushings. The ball joint was torn open but the clunking still remains.
That's why I asked you if it stops when you press the brake pedal while going over the bumps that cause the noise. If it stops immediately as you lightly press the brakes (which puts a bit of pressure on the pads), then your problem is look brake pads...You shouldn't need to remove the pads to stop the noise, simply pressing on the brakes enough should quiet them.
will do! I am out of town for a week so unless the magical cabby faeries sneak into my garage, there it will sit. I will update as soon as I can. thanks All!
1st Prize goes to Spokane Pepe as it turns out the the New Caliper on the Passenger side did not have the little metal sleeves inside it, just the teflon ones and the bolts so the caliper moved about and everything slapped about. Once fixed the majority of my loud noise went away!
Also, honorable mention goes out to Vswager as the bottom steering bearing had fallen some and I believe the top one will need to be looked at this winter.
Now I have a much quieter, occasional thump on certian big bumps like RR crossings. I have got to believe that being able to wiggle he passenger wheel at the 3 and 9 positions a bit can not be good. The only things on this side of the car that have not been replaced are he wheel bearing and the INNER tie rod. Suggestions?
So breakthrough today and it is a bit embarrassing. I am always shocked and complaining about what I see done from PO's to all of the old cars I have owned but this one was done by the CO (current owner, me). Seems as though I didnt tighten down the bolts on the new ball joint I installed:facepalm: So now the wheel is tight and only a little noise is heard when I hit bumps but it could be the steering wheel or it could just be anything that could be worn and loose in a 21 year old car.
thanks for all of the help!
Don't feel bad I drove off once with the lug bolts only finger tight. I was darn lucky that the wheel didn't come off and try to pass me.
Steve
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Ask a question
Ask a question
VW Vortex - Volkswagen Forum
84.4M posts
1.5M members
Since 2001
A forum community dedicated to all Volkswagen owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about performance, builds, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, new releases, and more!