LEFT FRONT CLUNK: could it be a sway bar link again?

[03protolx]

I already searched, all I could find was that people's sway bar links could possibly be bad...nothing about them going bad the second time in a short period of time.

I bought a 2003 Protege LX with about 110k on the clock...overall good shape. i had to get both the front wheel bearings replaced along with replaced both the front sway bar links and sway bar bushings. No sounds until recently I have been getting a consistent clunk on my left front-in which I can hear it when I turn left or turn into a driveway.

I have re-greased my slider pins over and over again but eventually the clunk comes back...and my pads are wearing evenly. Could my sway bar links be bad again? the roads in my area are pretty rough and I dont know what else could be clunking.

I took a pry bar to my lf ball joint and I can't seem to get any movement. It also seems to feel a little bit "looser" going over small bumps on the left side than it does on the right side.

i ordered two sensen struts for the front to improve the ride quality and a outer tie rod from rockauto.com...but I was curious if anybody has had the same issue with the sway bar links or possible sticking caliper...?

 

[xtreme velocity]

Hmmm, well my first thoughts would be sway bar bushings, end links, or strut mounts. Which will most likely not come with new struts. Just my thoughts. Might let someone's else chime in though.

 

[03protolx]

I have found since i replaced the front brakes with new pads and rotors, the noise went away...but it seems like the calipers are tired and worn.

links/bushings are new.

just replaced the struts.

 

[StealthWyvern]

I've had to replace my front swaybar bushings 3 times... Have you looked at your control arm bushings?

Edit: You also might want to make sure that endlink is on tight.

 

[03protolx]

I found it was my calipers. Its odd, I know, but every time I R&R my brakes when I replace a suspension part, the noise goes away for a brief time.

I guess it didnt help I was using wheel bearing grease with my caliper slide pins. I also replaced the anti rattle springs and the brake pad glides. good as new.


EDIT: Also...I bought synthetic brake caliper slide grease. it works a lot better now.