98 Winstar Clunking Noise

[edkennedy]

When I backup and turn hard to the left I have a clunking /snapping noise doesnt happen everytime but enough to be a concern

[mohdc]

Recently I had similar clunking from the front end on my 2001 windstar. Following some of the earlier threads, I greased the tied rod end, stabilizer bar link, and the ball joint. Since then the van has become quiet.
Front suspension components for windstar are all sealed. I used a needle attachment for grease gun and poked the boot for each of the above component and pumped grease into the boot. Care need to be taken not to over grease.

[fvnktion]

Originally Posted by edkennedy

When I backup and turn hard to the left I have a clunking /snapping noise doesnt happen everytime but enough to be a concern

I had a popping sound that ford dealer insisted was my struts. After replacing strut mounts, tie rods, sway bar links the noise persisted. I found that the popping sound was coming from the rack and pinion securing nuts being loose, after tightening no more problems. I have read of other windstars need subframe bushing replaced and causing popping clunking.