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noise in front end, steering?

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2011 3:06 pm
by masher
I just replaced the 2 front struts and installed new mount kits with them. It rides much and handles much better now and make no noiise while turning the wheels. I do get a slight noise when I hit bumps though. Its a slight clunking or rattling and sounds like it is in the steering. Now I have heard something about the steering shaft making noise on these cars, 2003 SLE. How do I check and fix it??

Thanks

Re: noise in front end, steering?

Posted: Wed Jun 29, 2011 10:08 pm
by Archon
The intermediate shaft problem will exhibit itself with a clunking sound and feel in the steering wheel every few degrees as you turn the steering wheel. You can find information on taking care of that in techinfo.
http://www.pontiacbonnevilleclub.com/fo ... f=55&t=217

Did the noise exist before you replaced the struts? Did you make sure the top nut on the shaft was tightened fully? Checked tie-rod ends, and ball joints? You may also want to check the bolts holding the rack. A few have found loose bolts there, but those also generally made noise during turns.

Re: noise in front end, steering?

Posted: Thu Jun 30, 2011 12:01 pm
by masher
Yeah the noise was there and I thought it was the struts or the bad mounts.

Ball joints seemed to be good. I didn't really check the tie-rods though. I will look at them and rack bolts.

Thanks for link to steering fix.