Front end clunk/clatter

[Moskvitch]

Hi everyone,

I've got a real bad clunk/clatter on my front driver side. The clunk is not a big clunk but rather the sound of slack in some parts. It happens only at low speeds, on light bumps (anything that just shakes the car a little). Big bumps and potholes it doesn't make any sound. It will also do it sometimes when i change gear (just the slight offloading of the suspension sets it off).

It is however loud enough and happens often enough (at least 10-20 times every drive) to be causing a concern.

I have replaced all 4 struts with new mounts up front 3 weeks ago
LCA's on both sides were replaced last year
Car has just had an alignment after struts (Running -1.5 camber up front, -1.5 rear)
New inner tie rod end on passenger side.

To me it sounds like a ball joint, but i can't find any play in it. It did however look rusty when i looked at it (boot doesn't seal that well).

Any ideas?

[carfreak09]

Check the anti roll bar bushings. The end bushings should have been replaced as part of the lower control arm replacement but there are two other bushings that hold the center of the bar. If any of these bushings are worn out, the bar will rattle around over small bumps.

[Moskvitch]

Thanks for your input. Although that didn't end up being the problem.

Figures i fix it after i ask the question right?

So it turned out to be the LCA was of poor quality and the cradle bushing had a lot of slop in it. Because of the sway bar, there was tension on it and it was impossible to see the play when the car was jacked up. Only when i completely removed the sway bar did i notice it.

Replaced it with a Moog LCA and also put in some poly swaybar to LCA bushings on both sides.
Steering has never felt better!

[sallydriver]

I was about to mention the fact some people's anti-roll bars were having the ends loosen, but I'm glad you fixed it!