When starting out regardless if I shift into reverse or drive I get a thunking noise that sounds like the sub frame bushings are worn out but that is not the case. She will make this noise when starting out and when applying the brake at low speeds to stop. She is an 02 GP GT 2door purchased new and has 185,000 miles on her 3800 engine. Within the past 6 months I have replaced all four shocks/struts, engine motor mount and tranny mount, rear sub frame bushing, left and right wheel hubs and CV axels. The engine runs like a champ. I am posting this in the suspension section but I honestly don't know where I should be posting. Thanks in advance for your recommendations. Bill
Thunk/Clank/Front End noise
- Thread starter 02 GP GT
- Start date
Check the dogbone bushings up front on the rad. mount. Also, check the lower control arm bushings. I had this same noise and it was solved by replacing the control arm/w new bushings and ball joint. Got a whole new arm with everything in it ready to go for cheaper than replacing the individual parts.
Thanks FordMan77 for jogging my memory. I have not replaced the dogbone bushings but have inspected them and they look firm and when shifting into gear they do not allow the engine to shift. As for the lower control arms, I replaced them last weekend. This noise is very puzzling especially after replacing all these parts.
NotEnoughGPs
New member
Also, check the diagonal engine braces. I have seen those loose, and when putting the transmission in forward and reverse gears, there is some movement, and if they are not tightened down, you can get noise.
That is if there are engine braces in place. I see more and more people who have removed one or both of them to make more room for underhood add ons
That is if there are engine braces in place. I see more and more people who have removed one or both of them to make more room for underhood add ons