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2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

 

Question: I hear a thump thump thumb in the front end .

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SportTrac, Plainfield, NJ, April 12, 2011, 14:27
 Rookie

The thump thump thump that seems to be associated with wheel speed---it is worse when driving straight
I replaced the front outer tie rods on both sides but the problem was not corrected. Any ideas?

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  • Answer #1

    DaveJHM April 12, 2011, 22:05
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     Master

    The thumping you are experiencing could be a few different things. In order of likelihood in my opinion:

    1) faulty tire. A tire or tires that have a flat spot or abnormal wear will make many possible noises - thumping is one of them.

    2) A wheel bearing. A faulty wheel bearing may grind, but can also resonate in a thumping manner.

    3) Is this a 4 wheel drive truck? Your transfer case and axles may make some noise.

    4) your drive shaft make make this noise.

    Have a good inspection performed - should be fairly easy to see the noise in action under the correct environment. Have a qualified technician help you.

    https://repairpal.com/directory?address=07060&car_bra...
    Click that link for some techs near you!

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    SportTrac, April 18, 2011, 08:17
     Rookie

    Thanks for this response. I changed the front drivers side tire and sure enough...the noise went away. This saved me from some costly repairs. Thanks so much for your help and guidance. (BTW- the noise was initially attributed to faulty outer tie rods. So I went ahead with the repair. I wonder if I actually needed that $300+ expense...) Thanks again.

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