Easy question i hope

[brodi3man]

My expedition grunts / squeaks when bouncing it or going over bumps. I just want to verify that it is the shocks before i have them replaced and not something simpler.

 

[GAINMOB]

shocks...or springs...or both

 

[Stoned06]

Bushings! Check all tie rod ends and sway bar bushings and shoot a bit of white lithium grease on all points where the bushing meets metal. When dirt gets in there it creates a sticky sludge that "shines" up over repeated rubbing, and that leads to a squeak when going over bumps. I've had it on all the Fords I've owned, and even some BMWs. Could also be the top strut rubber mount where the spring seats in the mount, but the bushings are most likely. I've never had a shock squeak, as when they lose the oil, they just lose rebound strength and don't squeak.

 

[brodi3man]

Thanks guys. I'll give the bushings some attention before throwing money at complete struts.

 

[semperfi96]

yep, just changed my shocks, given its a first gen, but still have the squeaks. BUSHINGS agreed

 

[FordandPolaris]

@semperfi96, if it is squeaking it is probably your ball joints needing attention. Common thing on 1st gens.

 

[Lane24]

X2 on ball joints.... Have to grease mine every few months...

 

[semperfi96]

@semperfi96, if it is squeaking it is probably your ball joints needing attention. Common thing on 1st gens.

Thank you sir

 

[FordandPolaris]

Thank you sir

No problem, I fought that for 6 months before I finally replaced my lowers. Fixed the problem right away.