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Creaking suspension

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AltaKnight

AltaKnight

Jedi Knight
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Took the TR6 out for a run for the 1st time with the top down tonight since it was relatively warm.
Now the tops down I can hear the front suspension making creaking noises when I turn the steering. It sure sounds like the springs moving.
Is this a normal sound, do the springs need lubrication?
I'm thinking maybe the seats that the springs sit on may need replacement, I think they're rubber or similar.
Any ideas out there? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif
 
I agree with Steve. I don't see why the springs would creak just by turning the wheels. It could very well be in the joints.
 
Hi,

The others are most likely correct.

Yes, there are supposed to be rubber pads on top and bottom of the springs, but those usually continue to do their job even when really old and semi-petrified. So, unless it's been apart and they were removed and left out since you last drove the car, it's unlikely the source of the noise.

You might also want to put a couple shots of grease into the steering rack.

On the other hand, it could be more serious. I don't want to scare you but there are a few other things you probably should check, might cause the same symptoms.

Look closely at the steering rack mounts, where they are welded to the frame, at the spring towers, and the angled struts behind them. Inspect for any cracks in the welds.

Also, have someone else sit in the car and move the steering from side to side while you are looking under the hood. Look for any movement of the steering rack in it's mounts, or any movement of the frame mountings at the welds. "Bounce" each front corner of the car while watching these areas, too. If you find anything suspicious or are in doubt, have a frame and suspension shop look it over, just to be safe.

Hopefully it's just some lubrication needed, though!

Alan
 
Well I've fixed the creaking suspension on the TR6.
Turned out to be the lower a-arm outboard bushings, the ones attaching to the trunnions.
I replaced them (a lot of plastic and thin metal bits and pieces to them) and the supsension is quiet now.
Of course to figure that out I had the whole front suspension and road spings out.
By the way you can remove the road springs and replace them per the manual without using a spring compressor./ubbthreads/images/graemlins/hammer.gif
 
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