Front suspension problems (still). Help please?

[Ranger X]

Well I've decided to do something about all the front end problems I'm having. I just don't know what to do. Here're the symptoms:

- Car pulls left when braking hard or after extended periods of driving time, and occasionally pulls right when accelerating.

- Too much play in the steering wheel.

- Steering wheel shakes when car travels over holes or bumps, no matter how small.

- Front end makes popping/grinding noises when going over bumps, especially speed bumps. The noise worsens in the cold.

I've been told that I need to replace the control arm bushings. I looked at them myself, and they are definitely worn, but doesn't that also mean that I need to replace the control arm itself? If so, how much does that cost and how hard is it to do? After nearly 100k miles, I'm sure I could use new struts, as well. What kind should I buy for balanced performance and ride quality? When changing struts, is it a good idea to get new springs to go with them (again, any recommendations)? Also, if I do change the struts out, would it be a good idea to replace the top mounts/bushings and all that? Are any special tools required for all this mess, or does it just unbolt right off? I think I need a spring compressor, and certainly a torque wrench...As you can see, I don't know a lot about suspension, but that's where you guys come in. Any and all help is appreciated.

[Ranger X]

Ok, nobody wants to help here...? Come on guys, I'd really like to get this stuff fixed. It's driven like this since right after I bought it, and I'm starting to feel a little like I got ripped off. I know taking it to a dealership, or any mechanic for that matter, is going to cost a fortune. Maybe I can't do all the work, but some information on what the culprit is would be good.

[wormhole]

I know about he front end problem. From what I've understod gen 4 and 4.5 have the problem. I've replaced front and rear struts and front strut mounts w/ kyb gr2 but I still have the problem I probable need to look at my bushings as well. I think if you use the search button you'll find a number threads on it.

[Ranger X]

Well yeah I have searched and even posted in several other threads concerning these problems. But the information is all scattered and some of it not even relevant. Sorry if I'm beating a dead horse here, I'll try searching again.

[wormhole]

have you tried the haynes repair manual. don't take it toa stealership you'll get screwed. try and find a good tire/suspension store to have ti looked at.

[Night Speed]

yea...i have the same problem, too. i installed KYB gr-2 struts for my front and rear, but still have the same problem

[skewe]

Originally Posted by Ranger X

- Front end makes popping/grinding noises when going over bumps, especially speed bumps. The noise worsens in the cold.

gen4 has lots of problem with strut mount. especially the front

[Ranger X]

Yeah, I'm gonna look into getting that replaced. There is a TSB that claims the spring bumper could be the problem. If new struts and strut mount components don't solve the problem, I'll probably just leave it alone. Thanks for the help though.

[Diehonda]

- Car pulls left when braking hard or after extended periods of driving time, and occasionally pulls right when accelerating.
- Too much play in the steering wheel.

- Steering wheel shakes when car travels over holes or bumps, no matter how small.

- Front end makes popping/grinding noises when going over bumps, especially speed bumps. The noise worsens in the cold.

1. Pulls? Alignment
2. Check fluid levels, alignment may help that also
3. rotate and balance tires
4. Strut mounts, sway bar bushings

Hope this helps but these are the things you should look into. I would have posted earlier but was talking to an 80 year old lady about her husbands viagra.

Also if you still see these problems after trying these suggested things then bump this thread. There are people here that get quite technical.

I think there is a thread on DIY struts install. I am not sure if it is on TN or elsewhere though. Search here or google. You shoule be able to replace just the control arm bushings but if you want to replace the whole then check a junk yard for a low mileage donor. I think you need are tools to cut the head ache the rear struts give when removing. You don't HAVE to replace the springs but the rest sounds like a good idea. KYB GR2 are the minor upgrade while keeping ride quality. Tokico's are nice too. If you are already dropping so much do on the mounts and all check out some coilovers.