98 4.0 creaking noise around steering box

[anthonygubbin]

Hi guys I have a creaking noise near the steering box. Sounds like it is coming from the panhard kinda but definitly sounds like it is the vicinity of the upper mount. Worst on full lock and tends to happen more when I turn to the right. I can not see any chassis cracking and no major steering box flexing going on either. I have a Wooders panhard and Wooders upper relocation bracket. The sound is a creaking sound for sure and not a clunk that you would generally associate with a panhard. The noise has been going on for some time but seems worse in the last week.

Any ideas what it could be?

Regards A

[anthonygubbin]

Quick update checked all the bolts and they are tight. Now I have just noticed that the noise is most prominent when the wheels are turned just off centre and back again.

Regards A

[layback40]

Quick update checked all the bolts and they are tight. Now I have just noticed that the noise is most prominent when the wheels are turned just off centre and back again.

Regards A

grease the joins with a EP (molly) grease & see if it is reduced or goes away.

[anthonygubbin]

grease the joins with a EP (molly) grease & see if it is reduced or goes away.

What joins do you mean Layback? Do I take the mount off and grease under that? And do I grease anywhere else?

Regards A

[rupicon]

Is the rail where the upper relocation bracket mounts flexing

[layback40]

What joins do you mean Layback? Do I take the mount off and grease under that? And do I grease anywhere else?

Regards A

Some times the ball joint on the end of the pitman arm will creek a bit if it has had water in it.
If you think the creek is some place where things bolt up to the frame. You could try a spray in different spots with WD40. just a little in each spot & test in-between` spraying different places. When you find the spot that it stops, you can investigate further.
Hope that helps.

[Dustbowl]

Hmm, I would look for cracks AG,
If you have one propagating, it will creak as it opens and closes.
;)

[Dustbowl]

Some times the ball joint on the end of the pitman arm will creek a bit if it has had water in it.
If you think the creek is some place where things bolt up to the frame. You could try a spray in different spots with WD40. just a little in each spot & test in-between` spraying different places. When you find the spot that it stops, you can investigate further.
Hope that helps.

Can't beat good ol WD-40 :mrgreen:

[anthonygubbin]

No cracks visible. Wilol spray some CRC or lithium grease around the place boths should penetrate.

Regards A

[anthonygubbin]

Just found out what the prob is; it is ball joints are worn out. I am taking it into a front end specialist this week to get them replaced. Just over $500 to do the job but I can't do it myself as I just don't have enough tools with me. So have to cough up the cash.

Regards A