front end poping noise

[cnuttgirl]

I searched the general discussion page for the last 100 days to find some answers for this and i didn't, so here goes.

just rolled over 76k miles. while driving my boss to work one day, i notice this poping noise. came from the left front (driver) wheel area. only happened once.

well, since then it happens a lot more often. at first it was happening more when i was making sharp right hand turns. then it was when i went over big bumps or small potholes. now it sometimes happens when i make a left hand turn, and when i go over small imperfections in the pavement (expansion joints).

the noise is always the same. if it were a knuckle in my hand it would sound like i poped it. i'm pretty sure i know what a worn out suspension sounds like (all i know for sure is how worn out struts sound).

i've read that people have had problems with the OEM bushings in the suspension system, but i haven't seen anything on this crazy poping that i'm hearing.

i drive my truck a lot and have about 25k miles left on the extended warranty...just that it's cold outside and don't want to be stuck riding with my hubby in his grand prix if we get any amount of snow on the ground

thanks in advance!

 

[rwinch]

Sounds like you broke one of the links on your front stabilizer bar. This is a common problem on the Exby's. You can:

1) Pick a new set up at any auto parts store
2) Get a new set from Ford
3) Order a new set online from the likes of Summitt Racing, etc.

Note, be sure to get the set with the polyurethane bushings.

Hope this Helps

 

[cnuttgirl]

rwinch-
is that something that is considered "consumable" under the extended warranty. i would think not, but you never know. i need to call my extended warranty people tomorrow.

 

[rwinch]

I am not sure about the extended warranty, but they are not expensive, and the "aftermarket" ones I understand have the better bushings.

Check it out before you commit.

 

[cnuttgirl]

just picked up the rental car from the dealer. the warranty people are sending an adjuster out monday morning. turns out i did break the stabilizer link...but they said it broke cause the tie rod ends and ball joints were bad. i also have to have new backing plates on the rear in for the parking break issue. the service manager didn't know how long it would take to get my truck back, and happily put me in a freakin' focus. not a fair trade it's free, so i guess i shouldn't complain.