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Weird Knocking From Driver Side

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rspark520

Probationary Member
8
0
Jan 24, 2005
Wichita, Kansas
Hey, I have been having a weird problem that just recently flared up. When I start from a stop, I hear a weird knock coming from the drivers side. I can't tell if it is coming from somewhere near the wheel or inside the car. I have to assume its coming from the wheel. It also happens when I shift into second, right after I let the clutch out. Normally I would say it has something to do with suspension, but since it seems to be connected with letting the clutch out, I really have no idea. Then to add to the confusion, sometime even when I'm coming to a stop it happens as well. It doesn't happen because I hit a bump or anything, since I normally notice it just on a smooth road. I would greatly appreciate any sort of advice or analysis. Thanks.

B.T.W. it is a 1990 GSX.
 
ok, i'll do that, but first i need to know exactly where that is and what it looks like. got any pics?
 
ok, new deal. it makes the noise if i tap the gas when moving, and it kind of jerks forward and then back, if that makes sense. And it does it more often if i do that. Come to think of it, every single time i do that, and sometimes twice. I don't know if this has anything to do with it, but when i looked underneath there, i noticed that the boot around the steering linkage (i think it was called a bellow) had torn, and there wasn't a whole lot of grease left in there. Anyways, see if that brings to mind anything. Thanks.
 
alright guys, i really need some help. i have a 90 gsx that has decided to start making a knocking noise at times :notgood: . The knock seems to be coming from inside the wheel well, and it likes to happen when i start off, when i shift and let the clutch out, and sometimes even when i'm coming to a stop. the other day i also found out that if i have it in first or second gear and just tap the gas while moving (in order to get a bucking type of effect) it makes it knock every single time.

Now, thats what happens. But i got down there and looked around and found out that on the steering linkage, there is a boot that has been torn. i am not sure if this is the reason (thus the reason for posting this thread), but i know it can't be good. this boot is called a bellow. on the last thread i started asking about this, defiant had mentioned something about looking for snapped bolts on the axle bearing carrier. however, he didn't ever explain what this is and where i can find it at. so, if anyone has suggestions i would greatly appreciate it.


thanks :dsm:
 
Spool-Blue said:
on the last thread i started asking about this, defiant had mentioned something about looking for snapped bolts on the axle bearing carrier. however, he didn't ever explain what this is and where i can find it at. so, if anyone has suggestions i would greatly appreciate it.


thanks :dsm:


The carrier bearing is bolted to the back of the block just below the ac compressor. Make sure the bolts are intact and tight.
 
cool, is it suspension related then? or is it steering? or what? :confused: i haven't had a chance to check it out yet thats why i'm asking.

b.t.w.- i'm on my friends name right now
 
I had the same problem before. Even felt like it was tranny related, then I saw that it was simply worn out engine mounts. Got those replaced, no more sound. U can check with a crowbar, just gotta place it properly. Or, if you have an automatic, just get a friend to hop in, press down the break, and put into drive and reverse (at this time you're looking at the engine). If the engine appearing to be sittin on a rocking chair, that's that.

I'd suggest using a big rod, u can tell much easier which or how many mounts are worn

Check that, maybe that's the problem.
 
alright, heres what i heard. it could possibly be the strut mounts at the top of the strut towards the fender. if those go out, i heard it could be the problem. and it also makes sense because it only seems to have to do with torque on the wheel itself and hitting bumps just right. lemme know what you think.
 
Spool-Blue said:
alright, heres what i heard. it could possibly be the strut mounts at the top of the strut towards the fender. if those go out, i heard it could be the problem. and it also makes sense because it only seems to have to do with torque on the wheel itself and hitting bumps just right. lemme know what you think.

It doesnt really matter what we think because it wont solve your problem. You need to get the car up on jackstands and check every suspension and drivetrain part in the front end. Check ball joints, tierod ends, axle carrier bearing, engine and tranny mounts, steering rack, control arm bushings, etc. Im sure after a thorough inspection, you will be able to find the problem area.
 
Found my problem!!!

Replaced End Link, didnt solve the problem... but made the pot hole clunk go away...

Replaced engine mounts... still clunking....

so i jacked up the front end with the cross member that goes down the center of the engine... the rear cross member mounting bolts were not completely tight.... problem solved....
 
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