python1

I have taken over my sons 2002 rx300 and have 106000 miles. Whenever i go over a bump at a slow speed i get a noise that sounds like the muffler system hitting the undercarriage in the rear end area only ,but i had the muffler system checked by lexus and they say it is ok.I have recently changed both rear struts and mounts,and tried disconnecting the rear sway bar,still have the noise.I had lexus look at it,and also my local trusted sears mechanic,they cannot find the noise.Also removed the spare tire and all parts,still the noise.If I jump on the rear bumper i can not duplicate the noise, only when driving slow. Ladies and Gentleman,any ideas?

python1

I can assume no one else has this problem nor has any ideas what it could be,o well......

artbuc

When you changed the rear struts, did you re-use the cushion/gasket that isolates the bottom of the coil spring from the strut? What brand strut mount did you use? I have read of many problems (ie noises) caused by not having the upper coil spring retainer properly seated on the strut piston rod before tightening the retainer lock nut. Did this noise start after the struts were replaced?

python1

i used the monroe sensatrak struts and brand new boots on both sides,the rubber seats seemed ok. the noise occured before the strut change and did not change one bit after the repair.it is annoying that i showed the noise to three mechanics who drove the car thaey could not find it. the noise only occurs when driving over bumps and can not be reproduced on the lift.i am in rockland county ny if anyone knows any suspension experts?

lexus114

Python,how is the ride on those Monroe`s ??

python1

The ride is to me is similar to the factory installed struts.the lexus dealer wanted 900 to do the 2 rear struts and mounts. sears had a sale on the monroe so i had the job done for 550 installed, it works for me!