Need Help. Clunk in reverse ONLY (turning) R or L

[Tim W.]

I have an odd issue

2004 4.8 is 36k miles

In reverse turning left or right I get a clunk in the front end. Almost as if something is shifting. I have had sway bar links go bad on my other X and this is not the same, especially since it is only in reverse. Everything is tight under the car. The control arms seem tight etc.

I searched and found lots of info on the sway links. I know i have to replace the air bags up front due to a slow leak. Could it be the shocks internally?

Any ideas would help.

[JCL]

I'd start with the control arms.

[Tim W.]

What other signs should I see if it was the Arms?

[JCL]

If you can go back and forth slowly, with the wheels turned, and get it to clunk in each direction, (building off your description of when it happens), then it would fit with the control arms.

[Tim W.]

And JUST in Reverse? Maybe worn on one half at the moment? I am trying to read up on it all right now.

[thedweeb]

When you say all seems tight did you have the front end up off the ground whilst checking? as it can be very difficult to check for play with the car on the deck. As JCL has just said check for play in the control arm joints and also the tension arm bushes/joints.
Dweeb

[Tim W.]

Yes, had it up on my lift. Pushed and pulled on them and checked tire for play. That is what is confusing me, they seem tight. Usually you get play out of them

[thedweeb]

Do you just get one clunk as it begins to move or a series of clunks whilst moving ?

[Tim W.]

Single hard clunk at almost full lock. Started on the left and now on both sides. It almost feels as if something shifted. It is that strong. But if it was something shifting you would assume it would shift back when you go forward. Nope, silent.

Suspension issues are like plumbing issues....I hate them both

[thedweeb]

Hmmm Strange, Have you tried holding your foot on the break pedel alittle whilst reversing ? Grasping straws really !