Popping sound front brakes-maybe??
 

question
almost everytime at slow speed, like out of my driveway when i push the brake and turn the wheel there is a loud popping sound?
anyone have an idea what that is?

thanks

I'm guessing its the strut rod bushings -- its usually the first front suspension component to wear out on a 98-00 LS400. This article has the best explanation I've seen on why the "semi-longitudinal tension rods and bushes" are under so much stress: http://www.autospeed.com/cms/A_3041/article.html

I can't remember the exact mileage but I think it was at about 80-85K miles that I had the strut rods, including bushings, replaced on my 00 LS. I was having front end vibrations that I had thought were caused by wheel imbalance or a bad tire but it became obvious that the strut rod bushings were the problem when it was found that it was impossible to properly align the front wheels. Replacing the strut rods/bushings eliminated all the vibrations. It's possible to press new bushings into the existing strut rods but, if you are having the work done by a mechanic, it's often cheaper to have the entire strut rod/bushing assembly replaced instead of having the mechanic spend the time to press in new bushings.

If it's not the strut rod bushings it is probably one of the other suspension components.

Kev, how many miles do you have on your car?

I would support the opinion of Kansas, with a second option being the transmission mount. My 1997 was making a similar noise and I have new transmission mount on order. It was confirmed with an inspection while on the front-end machine.

Good Luck.

thanks to you both.

Jim I have 72k on mine.

I'll take it to my mechanic and see what he finds.


k

I Have the same problem with my LS (same model). I have replaced ball joints and strut rod bushings,no help. Yesterday I took the car to my cousins mechanic. He grabbed my right front wheel at 12 & 6 gave it a shake and reproduced the sound. While watching the mechanic shake my wheel you could see the entire wheel, lugs and all ,moving while the brake caliper remained still. He says it is the hub assembly. I will find out in a couple of days for sure. If I were you I would have this checked as well.

check control arm bushings before replacing the hub. and upper ball joint.

Your mechaniccan also check that both caliper bolts are torqued - mine made that sound when once was loose.

at low speeds, when i let go of the brake pedal.. i hear a popping noise.. i thought it was my caliper coming in contact with the rim a tiny bit, there's a small clearance between the two

I had the popping noise like you describe and it ended up being the caliper bolts not torqued - couldn't believe it :yikes:

Sweet ride BTW :thumbup:

where to buy OEM strut rod bushings cheapest
 

Hey all, where can I get OEM strut rods and bushings for the best price?

thanks

any of the vendors? sewell should have a good price for you.