I have a 1996 3500 van that when I back out of our driveway which has a little bump from the cheap drainage system of the city, not a curb but a slight slope water diverter. Anyway when I back down over this or hit any bump I get a banging in the front end apparently the left (drivers side) of the vehicle. I cant find anything loose like a shock or anything just visually checking.
Wondering if anyone could direct me to some of the things I should check or should it go to a front end shop ??
Do upper or lower ball joints pop like that??
Any Suggestions appreciated then I could do some research and check it out.
Thanks much
grumpy

 

Ball joints usually squeak when going bad. I'd check the sway bar end links and tie rod ends.

 

Assuming shock absorbers are tight and in good condition, I would check the strut rod bushings and the sway bar bushings.

 

Strut rod bushings break down from the inside, You can;t tell by looking, but when it is all torn up inside, the strut rod is resting on the chassis mount. Clunks in reverse are common when the SR bushings are done for.

Might as well do the sway bar bushings at the same time as it is barely any more work.

 

Are these parts still available from the dealers or napa OR are they like the vac actuator stuff a junk yard part?? I would think a junk yard part in this case would be worthless gamble???
Or are they aftermarket buggy bumper makers??
Thanks
Grumpy

 

All parts easily available

http://www.energysuspensionparts.com...2WD+B3500+1996