Body/Frame - Creak/Tick/Squeak While Driving
NUMBER: 13-001-07GROUP: Frames & Bumpers
DATE: August 4, 2007
SUBJECT:
Squeak / Creak or Tick Sound During Vehicle Operation
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves inspecting a tapping plate cage in the left front frame rail and making modifications as required.
MODELS:
2007 (RG) Chrysler Voyager (International Markets)
2007 (RS) Caravan/Town & Country
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
Some customers may experience a Squeak, Creak, or a Tick sound while driving their vehicle. The sound may be noticed coming from the drivers side and may be interpreted as a suspension sound since it is typically heard while driving.
DIAGNOSIS:
Sit in the vehicle with engine running, gear shift in park and foot off the brake. Rotate the steering wheel from a full right to full left turn to load the engine cradle. While rotating the steering wheel to the right and left, listen for the sound. If a sound is heard while loading the engine cradle, shut the engine off, get out of the vehicle, and reach over the left tire and insert one finger into the frame opening that contains the tapping plate assembly (directly inside rectangular opening) (Fig. 1). Feel for interference between the rear tab of the cage and the vertical box section of the rail (Fig. 2). An inspection mirror may be used to visually confirm the interference. If interference is noted or the rear tab is tight to the box section, perform the Repair Procedure.
NOTE:
With the vehicle sitting still, the sound may be more of a Pop as compared to squeak, tick or click.
SPECIAL TOOLS/EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist and remove the left tire.
2. Using an appropnately sized pry bar, slip the pry bar into the opening. Slip the end of the pry bar into the clearance between the front tab of the cage and outer skin. Work the pry bar rearward between the rear tab of the cage and outer skin (Fig 3). Carefully bend the rear tab inward (away from skin) to provide a 1 to 2 mm clearance between the tab and skin.
NOTE:
Only bend the tab enough to provide clearance to the outer skin.
3. Install the left tire, lower the vehicle and verify the sound is eliminated.
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
FAILURE CODE:
Disclaimer:
This bulletin is supplied as technical information only and is not an authorization for repair.