Suspension issue...sounds like upper shock mount but it's not
 

Any ideas on what would cause basically the same noise as the upper shock mount coming apart? I went and bought another one (replaced this one just over a year ago) and when I take it all apart, the old one looks fine.

Is there supposed to be some sort of gasket between the shock mount and the part under it that has the bolts go through it and the shock tower of the car? Maybe it was just a bit loose and causing a bit of thumping?

Any other ideas?

Let me add to this that not only do I hear the noise over small bumps, but the front end seems to vibrate a little now too (just occasionally...mainly when I first start driving in the morning...like through the neighborhood. I don't really feel it on the main roads though. Not sure if they are associated or not.

I was thinking maybe it's the wheel bearing (for the vibration at least).

I also noticed that the same side's lower ball joint boot has a rip in it. I can't notice any play in it though...

i would bank on the ball joint....they dont last to long after the boots rip....do u knoe how to check for play

I've never been shown any technique...enlighten me!