I just bought an 03 FX4 SC out of warranty and there is a popping sound coming from the drivers side front wheel area. It only happens when turning sharply at slow speeds. It doesn't pop costantly, only a few times when turning. The truck rides and drives great at all other times. I was going to install "clunk washers" I read about here but I took out the lower control arm bolt and found the 03 SC's don't have the oval hole like the Lightnings have. I greased the steering stops, tightened the shizznit out of the lower control arm but it still pops. I put it on a lift and checked for broken bolts or anything loose and didn't see anything. Any one got any ideas?

 

The first thing that comes to my mind is a CV joint.

 

My 97 Explorer did that on the rear. It turned out that the rear differential was "sticking" and then "breaking free" when we held one wheel - that's why we noticed it more when making sharp turns. After changing out the differential fluid with that "stinky stuff" and driving it for a week or so it was fine.

I dunno if that might be what's up or not since yours is doing it in the front, but...

 

Hmmm, soulds like it may be wheel barrings. That's the first thing that comes to mind.

Chris Luce

 

Thanks guys for the replies. I ended up taking it to the dealership and got the idler arm replaced and it fixed it. Parts, labor and alignment, $290.

 

I MEANT to say that you should check out the Idler Arm

Seriously, though - that's good to know. Glad it wasn't something major and nasty!