Front end noise

[Bob Moore]

Mine is an '06 with 50k on it, 2wd, 4.7L
Over any kind of bump at slow speed there is a pronounced clunk/rattle from the front end I can be going straight or turning: no difference. On smooth surfaces there is no noise at all, and the truck tracks straight. The tires don't show any abnormal wear, and the strut mounts are tight.

I found this thread: http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...ront+end+noise
and the suggestions are sway bar bushings and tie rod ends. I can't find any slack or worn bushings.

Any more ideas?

[kingtut1980]

Possibly a loose brake caliper ??

[angus10]

Check the shock bolts.

[Lotuswins]

I've an 06, 40k miles, 2wd with 4.7 V8 also, and have the same clunking. I'm going to check the upper, inner control arm bolts for tightness also, but have ordered brake pads and new caliper slider bolts too just in case that doesn't work. I've tightened up the fender panels, the front radiator deflector, and the transmission cooler line that was laying against the frame but still have the metallic clunking. Wheel off revealed the caliper may be the culprit but the control arm bolts may also be it. Someone recommended a 155ftlb torque but I'll check that (I have a bolt torque program at work)....Jerry

[Lotuswins]

Well, I was under the front end without jacking anything up, and grabbed the sway bar end link on the drivers side, yep, its got slack in it. That explains on hitting a bump on either wheel making the noise on the drivers side.

I tried to order new links from Car Quest (Moog brand) but they don't make them yet, the trucks too new. The dealer wanted $81 each, but www.wholesalemopar.com has them for $43 each. You may try www.allmopar.com also, they have them for $41 each IIRC.

I should have them in a week or so....we'll see if that cures the noise......silly me, I thought with the low mileage, something like this wouldn't occur until over 100k miles.

Jerry Rude Prather California.....

[wayneo69]

end links are not uncommen on the 05 and newer dakota