strut noise

I have been hearing a front end noise that a back yard mechanic friend of mine has tracked down to be in a strut. When he hits the side of the tire with his hand you can hear the noise but it stops when he holds his hand ona certain point on the strut. He said he did not think it was anything dangerous...no sign of strut leakage etc. Hs anyone ever experienced anything like that???
Many thanks..Lansdowne

could be a strut bearing but unless you plan on replacing the struts too it is probably not worth replacing , a big job, have to pull the struts to replace it . Also check swaybar links and bushings.

could be a strut bearing but unless you plan on replacing the struts too it is probably not worth replacing , a big job, have to pull the struts to replace it . Also check swaybar links and bushings.
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Thanks.........swaybar links and bushing seem OK..so possibly the strut bearing is causing the problem?? What symptoms might be evident that would indicate its time to replace the bearing???????????
thanks again..Lansdowne

I'm thinking the purpose of the bearing is to allow the strut to pivot ever so slightly during it's up and down movement and to cushion the mount. I'm quessing the only thing you'll notice is a noise or possibly cupped tire tread. If your tires are ok can you live with the noise?

I'm thinking the purpose of the bearing is to allow the strut to pivot ever so slightly during it's up and down movement and to cushion the mount. I'm quessing the only thing you'll notice is a noise or possibly cupped tire tread. If your tires are ok can you live with the noise?
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The noise DOES bug me and i just put on two brand new Firestones......i don't need them ruined
thanks to everybody who provided information..i'm NO car expert.
thanks..Lansdowne

Strut noise is commonly mistaken for the sway bar bushings. Mopar in their infinite wisdom has not got this right. These bushings have a habit of wearing out prematurely. They are a split bushing and can be replaced for about $15.00 if memory serves me correctly. They are fastened on with a U style clamp. I have had to change 3 sets of these in my household and very easy to do. Good Luck