Grunting over Speedbumps (98 Ford Ranger)

On Sun, 28 Oct 2007 21:43:19 -0700, snewman1209 rearranged some electrons to say:

Probably a bushing that is worn out, or perhaps a worn-out ball joint.

My vote is the control arm bushings are shot. This is another job that you could do at home, but it is more difficult (physically demanding as opposed to technically challenging) than shocks.

You should replace the bushings on both sides, but you could try going over the bumps at an angle, first one angle then the other, to see if the noise is more on the left or right.

The springs rest in a rubber bushing too, these wear out and can make a groaning noise.

On my Saturn Vue, when I pulled/turned onto an apron to enter a lot (or similar), the front end creaking would sound like an old Lincoln with bad leaf springs or the "old bedsprings" noise you hear at a cheap motel (.....not that i'd...ummm...know anything about that...)

Anyway, it was more prominent when it got colder/cooler....Turned out to be the Strut Towers...Not sure if the Ranger has them, but it's another suggestion should you need one...

IYM

Thanks for the comments!

My bro-in-law mentioned i should stop by Jiffy Lube and see if maybe I just need to get some things oiled. I am stopping by today and will report back!

Also, how in the world do I go about replacing control arm bushings!? And if they are just dry, do I need to replace them? Or just oil them?

Oil? no.. If they are squeaking, they are dry rotted and need to be replaced. If you can bounce the car by hand, see if you can reproduce the noise. If you can, grab a friend and have him bounce it while you spray wd40 or any lube on the control arm bushings. If th noise subsides, you know you have the issue at hand. Call around for prices on replacing both sides, and also alignment.

I have done them before, you need special tools, and good mechanical skills.