Front End Clunking Noise

[kingair_pilot]

My 98 Pathfinder has a clunking noise noise coming from the front end. Noise started last winter when my daughter put it in the ditch. I replaced the front struts, but not the strut bearings (they looked OK - but I guess I should have replaced them). The noise was still there after I replaced the struts. Noticable at low speeds going over bumps; however, it is not turning related.

 

From what I have read from other posts it sounds like bushings need to be replaced. How hard are they to replace - am I better to get a shop to do it. Closest Nissan dealer is an hour away, - going elsewhere would I be paying someone guess at the problem.

 

Did the struts myself but it took me longer than I care to say - lets just say it would have cost a fortune even paying me min wage. But I goty it done! Just did not know about the one bearing - no thanks to the Nissan dealer.

 

Anyway, I would appreciate any suggestions.

[govols74n]

I am guessing that you checked your ball joints? If not, lift your front end off the ground....grab the top of your tire(s) and try to wiggle them from top to bottom...if either tire wiggles top to bottom it isyour ball joints....I had a lunking noise at slow speeds going over small bumps and it all went away when I replaced the ball joints. Just figured I would put that out there incase you hadnt checked.....when i say wiggle, i mean pull then push on the top ofthe tire...if the bottom goes in when you pull or the top comes out when u push the bottom, there's your prob.also check your upper control arm mount bolts, if they come loose as mine did, it will clank over bumps and when u hit the brakes. Good luck!

Edited May 2, 2006 by govols74n