On 3/14/08 5:19 PM, in article
c604b75e-7f0a-4ea4-9f13-622113da530f@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
"y2kbug"
<y2kbugg@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote:
> 96 GXE (automatic), 126k. Front end brakes were recently redone,
> calipers are free & clean too. axles/CV's have both been done in the
> last 12k miles (drivers side done probably 5-6k ago), so i dont
> suspect them.
>
> there is no predictable frequency to the knock/pop; it can happen
> with brakes on, off, though it doesnt seem to be tied to applying or
> releasing brakes. it can happen at low speed on smooth or bumpy
> driveways/parking lots, or medium speeds on various road conditions.
> it also doesnt seem to be tied to steering angle, as it can happen
> while turning or driving straight. ???
>
> I have investigated links in the front end and cant find anything
> obviously wrong (torn boots, free play of wheel/tire when jacked up,
> etc). Somehow i remember people saying maxima's had problems with
> upper strut bu****ngs going out and causing similar problems, but would
> they sound like that under those same conditions? The rack/boots on
> it are in OK condition, though there is some fitting underneath the
> rack that looks like it has been sweating just a little, though no
> appreciable fluid loss has been noted. Steering wheel feels smooth,
> on the ground and with both wheels jacked up. Also, i realize
> balljoints, tie-rod ends, and struts all may be suspect simply from
> their age (they are all original, 126k miles). ??
>
> any ideas or has anyone had similar problems?
>
> Also, when ball joints or tie rod ends are getting old, how do you
> know they are at fault if the boots seem intact and they dont have
> perceptible play when rocking parts all over?
>
> thanks a bunch,
> Matt
If the upper strut mount is bad, you will see some movement of the center
bolt in the top of the strut tower when you bounce the car & yes, they do
make a pop/clack sort of noise.
You should also look at the lower control arm bu****ngs & the stabilizer
bu****ngs. If the control arm bu****ngs are starting to disintegrate or the
stabilizer bu****ngs have hardened such that there is air space around
them,
it will be obvious. If you have the where-with-all to take apart the
front
of the car, I think the easiest way to check the ball joints is to unbolt
them and see just how loose they are.
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