Front-End "Bump" Gone

[schmeky]

After listening to a front end bumping noise that started at around 60k (now at 71k) I finally ordered a pair of tension struts (also known as lateral struts) and had them installed today.

Thankfully, this seems to have cured the noise. I am wondering if anyone knows if the new struts are any different from the originals? I am basically wondering if the new struts will last any longer?

[fnkychkn]

the part number has superceded twice since 2004. wether it will last longer....i guess you'll let us know.

[BobF's 6POINT1]

Can you explain the bump you had? Lots of us are looking for a cure. Any input Fnky?

Originally Posted by instybob I did take it to the dealer and explained it's a hard hit or thud when going over potholes or manhole covers. It creates a little bump steer too. When backing, it sometimes feels like yor front tires are rolling over marbles and slipping. Dealer said it was normal - I know it's not. As stated. A lot of people have the same complaint.


It's tough to diagnose over the internet. But your bumpsteer and marble comment makes us think that you might have an alignment issue as a result of a shifted crossmember or loose joint. We'd suggest going to the dealer and having them check the following:

1) Torque of the lower crossmember bolts
2) Alignment within specs
3) Outer Tie Rod (OTR) Integrity

[schmeky]

Thanx for the reply fnkychkn, superceded part numbers tell me something has been changed or altered. Time will tell.

[Hemi31]

When did the part number change again Fnky?Wonder if the set I put in were no good?

[bigjim]

Can you explain the bump you had? Lots of us are looking for a cure. Any input Fnky?

For a "quick" diag, with the wheels straight, kick (HARD) the back of the front wheel, if you here a LOUD clang try the tension struts.

[schmeky]

bobf,

The noise my RT made as a muted thumping sound. It only occurred over certain kinds of pavement. On smooth roads there was no noise. I realized how bad it had gotten when my son rode with me a couple weeks ago on a short trip to town. He said, "dang dad, what's that thumping noise?"

I realized I had become accustomed to it, coupled with the stereo blaring most the time, it took his input to get me off my duff.

The ride is now like it was new, very quiet. Aaaaahhhh.

[fnkychkn]

Thanx for the reply fnkychkn, superceded part numbers tell me something has been changed or altered. Time will tell.

sometimes it's just the price that changes.

[fnkychkn]

When did the part number change again Fnky?Wonder if the set I put in were no good?

sorry, i haven't been able to find dates yet. :(

[BobF's 6POINT1]

I'll take all the ammo I can possibly get for my dealer visit next week. Beans!

[moparman53]

I'll take all the ammo I can possibly get for my dealer visit next week. Beans!

What cal? 9mm? .45?

[Brilliant R/T]

I took my R/T in yesterday for a couple of misc things. One was a slight clunking noise from the front end only heard when going over speed bumps (I go very slow over these). When the tech inspected my front end he found & showed me the problem & replaced, Steering Gear power part #68002075-AA, Strut Tension Arms (one was weak) replaced both part #4782612-AC & #4782613-AC, also found 1 torn boot there so replaced both sides.

Hope this helps anyone.

[Big Boy]

I took my R/T in yesterday for a couple of misc things. One was a slight clunking noise from the front end only heard when going over speed bumps (I go very slow over these). When the tech inspected my front end he found & showed me the problem & replaced, Steering Gear power part #68002075-AA, Strut Tension Arms (one was weak) replaced both part #4782612-AC & #4782613-AC, also found 1 torn boot there so replaced both sides.

Hope this helps anyone.

Were these all replaced under warranty?

[Brilliant R/T]

BigBoy, yes they were.