Hear a metal hittin metal noise from front end when going over brick roads or any rough roads. I say lower ball joint, but are there any other areas where bushings are used and if so what parts do I need? Want to put in new suspension set-up.

 

Had the same problem. Mine ended up being the outer tie rod ball joint. Replaced and all was good. The lower ball joint will do the same. I suggest that you replace both when you do either one. That way, you know that will be good for at least another 150k.

To find out for sure, turn the wheels in the opposite direction from where you hear the sound (Ex. if sound is emminating from the left side, turn wheels all the way to the right). Then look. You will be able to see whether it is the top or bottom. Again, regardless of which one it is, replace both at the same time to save yourself some future headaches.

 

Thanks for the info I'm in the process of ordering all the bushings and ball joints from courtesy nissan. It's not cheap but like you said another 150k miles.

 

Another test that you may want to try is jacking up the offending side and seeing if you can move the wheel. Grab the top and bottom of the wheel and see if wobbles or has any kind of play. If so, then you may have to have an assistant shake the wheel while you investigate where the movement is coming from. Hopefully, it would not be a wheel bearing--however, they are know to blow out.

 

It might not be a bad idea to replace wheel bearings. maxine does have high miles it's going to be at the shop anyway.

 

With all of that done, she will ride like new (not that she does not now).

 

Another area to check are the sway bar link ends where they mount to the lower control arm. I had the right side bushings wear out and it made the same type of noise you have - only would hear it going over bumps.

The links are about $15 if I remember right plus the rubber bushings at about $3 ea, 2 per side(?), have to check the book again to be sure.

Tim

 

hope so I'm about to spend some $$

 

If you have all of that done along with a good alignment and balance, she will ride better than any F*rd, Ch#vy, or D&dge.