98 Catera: stabilizer bar linkages

[CharlesG]

I have a 1998 Catera, and it's been working well.

Earlier this summer, a weird hollow knocking (wobbling noise not actuall wobbling) started occuring. Tie rod ends were worn, had them replaced last week... the weird sound is still there.

Appears to come from the left front side. Apparent when driving over bumby roads, but no odd physical sensations (drives well, no wobble, pulling or vibration in the steering).

Today, the dealer mechanic says he 'thinks' it might be the front stabilizer bar linkages that are worn.

'Thinks'... not a good sign... and also a 400$ price tag to boot.

Anyone else ever experienced this?

Are stabilizer bar linkages known to wear (i only have 49358 miles on it)?

Any insignt would be greatly appreciated.

[danzio]

I too have a 98 Catera with 42K miles. Mechanic told me the tie rods need replacing. I currently experience a very rough ride over bumps and a wabble at about 65mph. Have you fixed the problem with replacing the stabilizer bars or not?

Danzio

[CharlesG]

Sorry Danzio, forgot to follow-up...

After replacing the tie rods, weird knocking still occured (stabilizer bar linkage)... haven't had time nor the money to replace.

I don't have any 'wabble' or knocking above 35-40 mph... really is limited to parking lot/pot hole / poor condition of road that causes it.

Planning on getting it done soon though.

[leaaaans]

I seem to be having the same problem with my catera, everytime I hit a bumo or a pot hole you hear the stabilizer bar wobbling , do you know if there is a way to tighten it instead of purchasing new parts , did new parts fix the situation?

[CharlesG]

Originally Posted by leaaaans

I seem to be having the same problem with my catera, everytime I hit a bumo or a pot hole you hear the stabilizer bar wobbling , do you know if there is a way to tighten it instead of purchasing new parts , did new parts fix the situation?

Sorry for the delay in replying... I asked, and the bushings are usually what get worn out.

New stabilizer link kit installed... fixed the problem.
(#90445137 and #90538867... these are the part numbers on my receipt, so they may be Canada specific... maybe)