My truck (99 Ram 1500 4X4) had some front end issues, I have rebilt everything less the u joints and the ball joints...it still has a very mild shake and i think I found the culprit today....I noticed that when I turn the wheel i get a "pop" at the same time the noise happens the tires seem to jump or pop slightly...I happend to notice that at the same time the shocks moved...upon further investigation I found that I have lots of side to side play in the front shocks at the lower mounting point. it appears as though the bushings are gone from both the left and right side of the truck....Do you all think that this could be the phantom I have been chasing...willl a work shock bushing casue the front end to vibe and make noise...it seems odd that a shock would play such a big role in the support of the front end...Any thoughts?

 

The shocks play a HUGE function in control of the front end. The lower mount bolts should be torqued to 100 foot pounds.

 

Yup, you really gotta crank on those to crush the outer mount against the sleeve in the shock. Its a PITA without an air wrench, but can be done.

 

Your shocks play norole in "supporting" the front end. Your springs support the weight of the vehicle. Shocks just controll the oscillations of the spring to give you a smooth ride so it's not so bouncy. But the bushings missing and the shocks being able to move freely can cause the pop or noise you're hearing

 

Thats just what I wanted to hear guys...I do appreciate your input..Thanks!

 

its not your shocks, its your ball joints. notice he said he tires eem to pop or jump slightly while turning? definitely ball joints. they'll make noise when they're bad too.

easy way to check? jack up the front, and try to shake the tires up and down hard. keep an eye on the ball joints, i'm betting you will see a lot of play and movement in them

 

Install some high-pressure gas charged shocks and you'll be retracting that statement.

Agree 100% ... given the symptoms (popping when turning). He also asked if messed up shock mounts would cause vibration and noise. Big yes on both. Mine are clunking on me right now. Time for a re-torque.