I'm sure you've all most undoubtedely seen these TSB's right?

If you have can you elaborate (once again if already visted, sorry ). Naturally, I have the clunk, and I want the correct fix for this.

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/proble...ervicemmy1.cfm

Service Bulletin Number: 8455
Bulletin Sequence Number: 128
Date of Bulletin: 0003
NHTSA Item Number: SB612863
Make: FORD TRUCK
Model: F150
Year: 1999
Component: SUSPENSION:INDEPENDENT FRONT CONTROL ARM:LOWER
Summary: SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A POPPING NOISE FROM THE LOWER CONTROL
ARM. *TT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
Service Bulletin Number: 14029
Bulletin Sequence Number: 129
Date of Bulletin: 0003
NHTSA Item Number: SB612980
Make: FORD TRUCK
Model: F150
Year: 1999
Component: SUSPENSION:INDEPENDENT FRONT CONTROL ARM:LOWER
Summary: SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A POPPING NOISE FROM THE LOWE CONTROL
ARM. *TT

Lemme know if I have stumbled on something that already has been visited, and/or if it is the proper fix. I'm sorry if already been discussed, but I did research a few old threads and saw nothing about it.

I'm checking to see if my intercooler is leaking (for some reason I want to say yes, but not sure yet), and if it is I'll add to the proper posts.

BfB

 

My i/c isn't leaking, thankfully. Where's the wood...

Anyhoo, I was hoping that I'd get someone to respond back about the clunking noises on the driver's side control arm w/ these TSB's I have posted.

I have read about most of the generic fixes such as the star washer, welding, and/or a washer, but I was hoping that these TSB's might call for a different and better approach.

Thank you,

BfB

 

I'm devastated please someone respond, LoL

 

I'm pretty sure that is the useless TSB, the one that just says to tighten the heck out of the bolt...

 

LoL, oh okay that's what I was looking for

Also, does the 2000's or the '01's have this problem or did they fix the control arm to not have the oval hole?

Thanks!

BfB

[This message has been edited by BfB (edited 03-23-2001).]

 

I told you how to fix it man. Take it to the dealer and have them tack weld a washer to the frame. Also have them check your front end alignment....

------------------
99.5 red Lightning
13.2@103
01 ordered on 3/17
hud@mc.net

 

The 01's (well, mine and at least 1 other ) also exhibit this problem. You should get a hold of Herb Jackson for a set of his washers. (jacksonherb@hotmail.com)Seems to fix ~most~ trucks with this problem. Of course, each truck is unique, so... that's my recommendation.

Good luck.

 

Quick question - is there any detrimental effect caused by this problem? I mean, if it's just the noise, then why bother to fix it?

------------------

2000 Black Lightning
#4399

 

Tack weld the washer to the frame. Get the front end aligned and your done.Some where on the board are the custom alignment specs for the L. It got rid of my wondering problem. Bob

 

If the lower control arm mounting point moves, your alignment is shot. The tires are at least US$175 a pop...

 

Ahh, good point. But if the arm only moves when you hear the clunk (only backing up with full wheel turn), is this still a problem?

Thanks for the info...




------------------

2000 Black Lightning
#4399

 

Well, you have heard the sound once, so the bolt has moved. It is highly unlikely to move back to the same position as it was before, so your alignment is out. You might get this movement while driving and not hear the sound, masked by the sound of the personhole cover you drove over, for instance. Or the movement might not be to the full extent of the slot, not making as loud a sound.

The bottom line is, the fastening method is not secure enough for the geometry and forces involved.