Control Arm - Snap/Pop/Clunk Noise
83ford6Article No. 83-22-9
NOISE - CLUNK/POP - FRONT SUSPENSION
FORD 1981-83 ESCORT, EXP; 1984 TEMPO PRIOR TO 9/1/83
LINCOLN-MERCURY 1981-83 LYNX, LN7; 1984 TOPAZ PRIOR T0 9/1/83
This article outlines a procedure to service a Clunk or popping noise emanating from the front suspension on turns. The noise occurs as the vehicle turns a corner. This noise is a single snap, popping, or clunk noise which may be felt in the floor and will not recur until the vehicle is driven straight and then turned again.
If the condition described above occurs, prior to any component replacement, visually check all front suspension bolts/nuts for looseness. If no visual evidence of looseness exists, check the control arm to body attaching bolt/nut torque. There are two design levels for this attachment which require a different torque. Level 1 Hex head bolt, installed from the front to the rear, driven into a hidden nut and retainer assembly. Torque bolt to 56 ft.lbs. Level 2 The bolt and retainer is installed from the rear to the front and a flange nut driven onto the bolt from the front. Torque nut to 31 ft.lbs.
NOTE: Vehicles produced after the date stated above have an upsized bolt and torque adjustment should not be required.
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WARRANTY STATUS: "INFORMATION ONLY"