More escort problems

[oomchu]

Ok, so here's the new problem.

98 ZX2 makes knocking sounds when I drive it. The knocking sounds like it is coming from the suspension on the drivers side, but I checked all the suspension components a couple of different times and nothing is loose. I've done this before with a lower ball joint on the passenger side and both lower tie rod ends, so I know what to look for when I check these. The knocking sound increases in frequency as a drive faster and at freeway speeds I can feel the steering wheel shaking back and forth. Around town is ok and really that's all I need it for, but I would like to know what this could be and if I could fix it myself.

Thanks for any info.

[GTP Dad]

There are several things to check. First, check the tires and wheel on the front. It is possible that you lost a weight off of one of the wheels and the tire is unbalanced and is causing the problem. Since you feel this only at higher speeds also check the CV joints. They can make a knocking sound and will usually be more pronounced at speeds. Usually between 60 and 65 MPH. Otherwise the only other item I can think of would be control arm bushings possibly going bad.

[mightymoose_22]

Also check that the steering rack is not coming loose from the mount on the firewall.

[denisond3]

More guesses: I have had a knocking sound because of a loose mounting bolt on the brake caliper. The two parts of the caliper have to slide together as the brake pads wear, and they move back and forth on the mounting bolts. Either bolt being loose (one of mine was stripped) can let the caliper contact the inner part of the wheel.
Could the noise be loose lug nuts? ..or a loose hub nut? ...or a bad wheel bearing?

[craig34]

I would check the break calipers also, seen this problem with my relative cars.