89 Taurus - unusual noise

[oam]

Hi,

I need advice on my 89 GL which I have had for about a year
and is running great. (Only 84K on it!)

Last couple of weeks I started hearing a noise to the left side
of the car, possibly frame/undercarriage. It only occurs when
I go over a speed bump or pothole, and sp. when the car
sways a bit sideways. Its a low freq. metal-on-metal type noise.
The car has good brakes and new tires.

Any ideas appreciated!
oam

[mikeemon]

Check wheel bearings and especially ball joints

[oam]

Originally Posted by mikeemon

Check wheel bearings and especially ball joints

argh.. sounds like trouble . thanks, will do!

[98taurusse]

Originally Posted by oam

Hi,

I need advice on my 89 GL which I have had for about a year
and is running great. (Only 84K on it!)

Last couple of weeks I started hearing a noise to the left side
of the car, possibly frame/undercarriage. It only occurs when
I go over a speed bump or pothole, and sp. when the car
sways a bit sideways. Its a low freq. metal-on-metal type noise.
The car has good brakes and new tires.

Any ideas appreciated!
oam

How are your subframe mounting bolts???? I had the same problem on my 1988 Taurus GL that would be my best guess or try the struts. One way to check the subframe bolt is to have one person kneel down about 4 ft away from the car then while holding the brake put it in reverse then cycle down to drive or Overdrive depending on if you have the AXOD or not. Ford had a recall on the front or rear set of these bolts. However according to the recall that I read they didn't issue them in other states where sand salt and corrosion are a problem. I would check into this first Let me Know how it goes!!!!!!!

Leon.

[bustedratchet]

Check the bar that goes from the lower control arm to the frame. Sometimes the front mount for the bar in the frame breaks out.

[oam]

Thanks for all the suggestions everyone.

Latest is that I took it in to a mechanic, he said the struts need
replacing, which he did, but the noise still comes back tho not
as bad as before.

I am taking it back in tomorrow ...:-(

[bustedratchet]

Get him to pry on the front of that bar for and aft and side to side.