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popping/clunking sound when steering at slow speeds

4K views 7 replies 3 participants last post by  Luckymac 
#1 ·
Hey guys so for about a few weeks now my 89 yj 4.2l with a 2.5inch rubicon express lift has been making a popping/clunking noise when i turn my wheel at a dead stop and below 10km/h. I have figure out what is making the noise, its the leaf springs shifting about 5mm left to right. I cant figure out why they are shiting though, i have re torqued the whole front suspension and they are still making the noise, any suggestions would be great as i am getting very annoyed with this noise
 
#2 ·
How exactly are they shifting? They could shift in a couple different ways which would indicate different issues.
 
#3 ·
What type of retainers do you have to keep the leaves in alignment.
As far as I know, there are two types.
Type one is a metal strap that wraps around the leaves, one ahead of and one behind the axle. They are usually held in place with a rivet into the bottom leaf and are open at the top. As time and miles go by, they loose their grip and seem to spread apart....allowing the springs to work sideways.

The second type of retainer is a clamp that has a bolt to keep everything tight. I think these are superior to the strap type.
Attached is a pic of the type of retainer with a bolt. Just be sure that the bolt points inboard so that it doesn't rub on the tire at full turn as this one did before I turned it around.

Post a pic of what you have.

Good Luck, L.M.
 

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#5 ·
If the clamps are loose, it should be obvious. There is a sleeve on my bolt so that the nut can be tightened only so tight. I don't think it can hurt to put a wrench on the nut and see if it will tighten up some. Just don't overtighten it and break the bolt. They are only (grade 5) 5/16" bolts.

Yes, there is a rubber spacer between the spring pack and the clamp.
I bought my springs from General Spring in Kansas City. They have the best prices I found and great service. If you could use the little rubber spacers, perhaps you could contact them to see if they will sell you any.

Let us know how you make out.

Good Luck, L.M.
 
#8 ·
You might want to consider the process of elimination.

If what you have done so far has improved the situation but not cured it, I suggest replacing your spring bushings. Start with the shackle bushings (easiest) and then go on to the main eye bushing (you will need a press or a piece of 3/8" allthread and some large washers). Most folks remove the old bushings by burning the rubber out and then pounding the sleeve out with a hammer & chisel.

If replacing the bushings doesn't cure the problem, the next thing to do is new springs.
Just be sure that it's the springs making the noise in question.

Be safe and Good Luck, L.M.
 
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