BrickHead

Hello everyone,

The suspension in my 98 LS400 makes a metal clapping sound when the temperture is cold and during the first 30 minutes of the morning drive. The noise occures when I drive over minor irregularities on the road. I don't hear the same noise when I go over big bumps, only over small bumps and when the car is cold. The noise goes away when the car warms up. The mechanic has not been able to recreate the same noise when I take it to the dealer. Has anyone had a similar experience?

Thanks,

Kevin

JJDAG

I have a similar problem i have replaced the strut rod bushings as the front end was clunking and popping at every bump, after the replacement it was nice and quiet and was smoother over bumps. After about 6k miles the nose came back but was worse, I expected to see something hanging off when I put it on the lift but could not find anything loose or worn, the new strut rod bushings were still intact. after letting it off the lift the noise was gone for a few days but then came back. Last week the weather got warm . over 50 deg f now noise is gone and back to riding smooth. The struts seem ok the car does not bounce over bumps. Thinking back the noise did start after the weather got cold. I cant figure out what parts make that much noise when cold then get back to nice and quiet when temps get over 50.

John

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

raise hood, locate the two black caps over the top of your struts, remove them and tighten the nut one revolution, and take it for a spin and see if it improves... let us know

JJDAG

Thanks Billy I will give that a shot. Its suppose to rain for the next couple days so it may be the end of the week before I get a chance to work on it. I will let you know the outcome. Thanks again for your help!

JJDAG

Ok Billy I as able to get about 1 full turn on the strut top nuts on each side before the strut piston started to turn. Problem its been hot all week mid 50's and the noise doesn't start until its below 40 so its still quiet, although I thought I heard a little pop a couple times but it was very quick and not very loud. Now thats its been 55 all day today we are getting 6-8 inches of snow overnight needless to say I will not be driving the Lexus tomorrow. So in your opinion if the noise comes back when its cold or if it does not come back what needs to be replaced if anything? I really appreciate your taking the time to post your suggestion . Hope your not getting snow where you live!
John

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

no snow in Dallas.... carrollton is a suburb... a Lexus mech told me after 100k or so the strut seats " relax" and get a little slack in them and can make some noise.. and it worked on mine if not, new seats should work go to a parts dept ask to see one.. good luck

JJDAG

Thanks Billy I will look into them, makes sense I have 105k on it now.