Hollow Knocking noise over bumps...front suspension only

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Lincoln84

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So I have read many threads here on this problem. I am just trying to figure it out still. I don't want to take it to a mechanic and get screwed! I will describe what I hear the best I can.

The sound: (Front of car only)
When I hit any size bump at basically any speed (mostly slow I guess) I hear a knocking sound EVERY time. It's like a hollow knocking sound...this also happens over speed bumps at the slowest speeds. It's annoying as hell! The sound is the same on both sides in the front and sounds like its above each tire.

So is the cause of this b/c ford forgot to tighten something on the suspension because I remember reading something about that?

This is a link of a post that names all the problems I have read about...how am I to tell which one it may be though?

http://www.lincolnvscadillac.com/showthread.php?t=59609&highlight=knocking+over+bumps


I need some help to at least narrow down what the problem might be b/c I would like to fix this problem in January! Any easy ways for me to check the car and figure it out?

P.S.
Lately when I start my car I notice a noise when I turn the steering wheel, seems like it's only when the car is warming up? It automatically made me think power steering or something...However, once I have driven the car for about 5-10 min it goes away. What do you guys think?
 
I had the EXACT same problem. Took it to the dealer about a month ago.

I'm no mechanic so I have no idea what they did but I believe they replaced the sway bar bushings...They also said something about the sway bar links..perhaps it's the same as the bushings?? Anyway, they replaced those too and now no more sound. I think it was around 100-150 for the dealer to do it. If you really want to know exactly what they did and how much, I could probably dig up the paperwork...
 
Cool, well it looks like I will be purchasing some sway bar bushings in the near future! Can't wait till I don't have to listen to that noise! So what are the sway bar links? Or do I just need to order some sway bar bushings?
 
Also, I have a 2000 LS8 Non sport (chrome on bumpers) so what size sway bar bushings do I need to purchase? Engery Suspension's website does not have Lincoln Ls as an option when you search but in the link above they purchased the size 1 3/16" parts# 9.5171R and ordered them for an 01 LS Sport.

I mean, do I want the ones that fit the sport? I know they will fit...what will change in the ride and handling?:confused:
 
From what I understand, the non-sport LS had a smaller diameter bar. I'm not sure of that diameter though. You wouldn't want to use the Sport sized bushings because they would be too big obviously and you would probably still have the clunking sound.
 
I use to have the same problem, loud knocking/thump when going over bumps. Changed sway bar bushing and problem completely disappeared.

If I were you, I would switch those out first, since they're only $20 or so and labor probably another $50-100. If you search, you will find this was a very common problem but not a very tough fix at all.
 
I have a 2001 v6 non sport of course, and I just started hearing this clanking noise, over the smallest bumps, so how many bushings will I need to buy? and that link de marko posted is that a direct link to the non sport, are those the bushings I need to buy? I have a friend whos a chevy mechanic that will do it for me. just making sure.
 
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