Fixing clunking noises up front

[Jand3rson]

I asked about this a while back, and looked the old thread up, and didn't really get much in the way of helpful info, so here's my question again.

My wife's 89 325i make a lot of clunking noises in the front, mainly when you go over bumps, such as into driveways or over speedbumps. It also does it when you are turning a sharp corner. I was wondering if anyone else has had these issues, and what you did to fix them. I guess what I would like to know is what parts could be worn/damaged and causing the noises, that way I can check them all out, and not have to worry about replacing something major, only to find it's not the problem.

[trent]

Re: Fixing clunking noises up front

I asked about this a while back, and looked the old thread up, and didn't really get much in the way of helpful info, so here's my question again.

My wife's 89 325i make a lot of clunking noises in the front, mainly when you go over bumps, such as into driveways or over speedbumps. It also does it when you are turning a sharp corner. I was wondering if anyone else has had these issues, and what you did to fix them. I guess what I would like to know is what parts could be worn/damaged and causing the noises, that way I can check them all out, and not have to worry about replacing something major, only to find it's not the problem.

Control Arms - check for play
Tie Rods - check for play
Upper strut mounts - check for play / movement / bearings
Wheel bearings - check for play

[Jand3rson]

Thanks Trent. Forgot to add something:

Last time I jacked the car up to check it out, I found that I could move the entire strut assembly back and forth with quite a bit of play. Also, about a week ago, we took the car to a car wash, and as they were driving it out, the car went over a bump and I noticed the entire strut and wheel assembly shift when it hit the bump. There is also quite a bit of steering and overall car vibration around 55 to 65 mph.

[Jordan]

Buy new control arms (with new ball joint), new CAB's and new inner + outer tie rods.

Problem fixed.

Your wifes car is a prime example of a poorly maintained e30.

[Jand3rson]

Buy new control arms (with new ball joint), new CAB's and new inner + outer tie rods.

Problem fixed.

Your wifes car is a prime example of a poorly maintained e30.

Thanks Jordan, will do.

About the poor maintenance, I know. The people that owned if before me didn't take care of it at all. But it has a good home now. :D

As for the tie rods, you mentioned inner & outer. Does that mean just the tie rod on each side, or are there 2 parts on each side? I looked for them on BavAuto's site, and it just lists "Tie rod assembly - left or right - $49.95" Of course I'm not going to buy them from BavAuto, I just wanted to make sure of what the parts were that I need.

This is what they show on their site:

[Digitalwave]

I am sure that bad CABs have a bit to do with it. Replace them with urethane - whether you want offset ones or not is up to you. They are about $90 a pair.

I'd also check the top collar that holds the shock inside the strut tube. For a long time, mine always loosened themselves and they rattle REALLY bad when they are somewhat loose. Finally got Loc Tite on them and they are great now.