Suspension "clunk" question

[Drummerboy]

When I'm driving straight, something in my suspension/steering system makes a rapid knocking sound.
It happens less when I turn.
It still happens in neutral (So I don't believe it's clutch/transmission related)
Also knocks with momentum change (shifting, braking,etc) but that may be a separate issue.


Would a bad inner/outer tie rod make that noise? I pulled the driver side wheel and saw that the outer tie rod ball joint is ripped, and the inner tie rod dust shield/boot is ripped and the inner ball joint shows some rust. I just don't know why THAT would make such a rapid noise.

The noise sounds like a CV axle when it's bad, but it's when I'm driving straight.

[YoItsCarlie]

you need to distinguish if it is vehicle Speed or engine speed based.

If vehicle speed based, thefaster the car moves, the faster the noise
If engine speed based, while car is stationary, the faster the motor revs, the faster the noise....


Inspect your CV axle boost none the less...
As welll, insure your Intermediate shaft is bolted up (if B,H,O F series engines since no engine or car model was given)
since you say it does it in neutral (whether stationary or moving), you may want to see if it is a Rod knock.

[Drummerboy]

^ It's definitely suspension. I was sitting on a level surface, with the car in neutral and the e-brake on and I threw my body weight around while sitting in the driver seat and I can hear it. I think i've narrowed it down to a loose exhaust hanger (found that today) and possibly strut mounts. I know the current mounts LOOK worn, but I've never replaced them, so I'm not sure exactly how they're suppose to look.