90 xlt new owner

[djcaron11]

Just bought this rig and put new 31s on it. Started making a strange noise afterwards. The shop that put the tires on said it could use a ball joint. Would this cause the noise? Sounds like a deep grind and can feel it sometime under my feet when going slow. Higher speeds sounds like a fast clicking. I know it needs some work but its my first project. Just a beginner with the broncos.

 

[Bully Bob]

Hi Dj.., welcome..! 

There's nothing really unique about a Bronco..., all these rigs are pretty similar.

Jack the wheel off the ground & see if you can wiggle it up-n-down. If so.., it's likely a worn

ball joint(s)

However, the noise sounds more like a brake issue.

 

[djcaron11]

There is a bit of play in the tire. I figured the guy wasn't lying about it. The brakes I'm sure need to be done. They do squek a bit. Would ball joints cause kinda a thump noise when going over speed bumps.

 

[Bully Bob]

"Would ball joints cause kinda a thump noise when going over speed bumps."

Quite possibly.., especially if you're a bit fast.

 

[djcaron11]

Even when I'm going slow it still makes the noise. I can feel it under my feet most the time. Like I said new to thisbronco. It needs work I'm sure but trying to figure out what it needs now.

 

[Seabronc]

A vehicle that old may have several things in need of serious attention.  Start with the things you already know and fix one thing at a time.  A grinding noise could also be wheel bearings

>-

 

[Bully Bob]

What I've done to fine these noises is to put the front on jack stands (chock the rears) so the 

 wheels are clear of the ground.

Then wack the tire in several different places with a short handle sledge hammer.

This can sometimes mimic driving & help find what's loose.

Order of inspection/repair of a new to you vehicle.

1) must "stop" properly.

2) must run & shift properly

3) steering & suspension must be clean, smooth & tight.

Then there's electrical, lights, glass, tires, instruments, creature comforts, etc.

 

[djcaron11]

Thank you guys for the information. Going to do the ball joints this weekend hopefully. Buddy of mine said wheel bearing could be the sound I hear when driving normally down the road. This is a different question but it doesn't seem to have the go power as other 302 I have driven. Is it the aod transmission or something with the engine

 

[Bully Bob]

"This is a different question but it doesn't seem to have the go power as other 302 I have driven. Is it the aod transmission or something with the engine.?" 

Start a new thread for this.

Wheel bearing would have to be awful bad to feel it in the floorboard.

Same for the hub guts.

Noises, vibrations have a habit of "transmitting".  Don't rule out trannie, transfr., dr. shafts & U-joints.

Do fill-in your info. pages so we'll know what we're working on here... >< <'>

 

[djcaron11]

Funny you mention u joints. Found two in the consul that is supposed to be bolted between seats but was in the way back bouncing around when I got it. Figured it needs to be done then but didn't think that would make the noise while driving down the road at 45-60. Thank you bully bob.

 

[djcaron11]

Hey bully Bob I got a question for you. My tie rod boots are all worn and smashed wicked. Is it safe to drive for another week or so.

?

 

[Bully Bob]

Ea. issue should be put in a diff. thread.  Saves lots of confusion....

I think you're talking about the dust boots...

We can't take the liberty of stating what's actually safe W/O laying an eyeball on things.. :-B

However, as to dust boots..., they're there just to keep the joints clean.

If the actual joint(s) is snug then you'll be ok .... /

 

[Elmo]

Radius arm bushings