I have a 2001 Ranger, 2wd, 2.3 L engine, 42,xxx miles. After driving for a few miles, I feel a "clunk" in the front end. It does not do this when cold, and it seems to be coming from somewhere in the front end when driving straight (not just when braking) and even does it on smooth, paved road. It is audible, but is easier felt than heard. Any ideas?

 

is it bump related???

 

No, it doesn't seem to be related to bumps, but that doesn't mean it's not in the suspension. It does it even on smooth, paved road; and I only notice it after it heats up and I've driven a little ways. I'm sure it's in the front end, but everything underneath appears to be tight. Any ideas?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated. This is my third Ranger and I've never encountered this problem before.

Thanx

 

If you say it comes from the front end i would suspect the radius arm bushings.This drove me nuts on my truck.If it is the radius arm bushings you will feel it on the floor board when hitting the slightest bump.It took me a long time to find out where the noise was coming from.If that is not it I would take it to a shop for a estimate.Or take it for a alignment and explain this situation to the tech.

 

I had the same problem. My 96 Ranger needed new radius arm bushings and I got them changed myself. Although, it's started making a clunking noise again. Only on driver side. and yes, it is audible through the floorboards and annoying as hell!!!

 

is it coils or torsion bars?

 

It may be the radius arm bushings, but also could be the inner tie rods. If you find it is not the radius arm bushings, try disconecting the outer tie rod ends, spin the inner tie rods about 10 times to losen up the grease in the knuckle that conncts the inner tie rod to the steering rack gear. The grease sometimes dries out in one area, and spinning may help. If this gets rid of the noise, you should concider replacing the inner tie rods down the road.

 

Would it be a busted CV joint or hub?