Suspension problem
1995 Toyota Camry 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 177k miles
Thanks for looking at my question guys. Here's what's going on.
When driving, I often hear a loud pop from the front, passenger side of the vehicle. This only occurs when I hit bumps and when I turn sharply. There is a pop on the way down, and one on the way up, often in rapid succession. (Except in the case of hard turns, where the pop is first heard at the beginning of the turn, and not heard again until straightening out.) Also, it gets more frequent with more weight in the car.
I can usually tell when this is about to happen based on the expected force of the turn or bump. I am generally able to control this and prevent the "pop" by slowing down, or not turning as sharp.
Other necessary information: About a year ago I installed wider tires with lightweight 17" aftermarket rims. Separate from this is an issue that was brought to my attention by two separate mechanics about leaking power-steering fluid due to a damaged boot on the rack&pinion. Both suggested the rack&pinion be replaced or rebuilt. The second mechanic took a look at the suspension, struts, mounts, etc. and was unable to explain the pop. He was also unable to duplicate it. (A fluke, if you ask me.) Had a full tune-up, oil-seals replaced to fix leaks. Passed TX inspection with no problem.
Finally, there is the weight issue. While the vehicle seats four comfortably, I am unable to drive with as many people in the car due to the tops of the rear wheels rubbing the inside of the wheel well.
My Theory: A suspension problem, involving the tall, wide wheels. I've thought about installing a more rigid, coil-over suspension to see if it will allow me to carry more weight and possibly solve the popping, but haven't wanted to spend the money.
Thanks again for the help.
1995 Toyota Camry 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 177k miles
Thanks for looking at my question guys. Here's what's going on.
When driving, I often hear a loud pop from the front, passenger side of the vehicle. This only occurs when I hit bumps and when I turn sharply. There is a pop on the way down, and one on the way up, often in rapid succession. (Except in the case of hard turns, where the pop is first heard at the beginning of the turn, and not heard again until straightening out.) Also, it gets more frequent with more weight in the car.
I can usually tell when this is about to happen based on the expected force of the turn or bump. I am generally able to control this and prevent the "pop" by slowing down, or not turning as sharp.
Other necessary information: About a year ago I installed wider tires with lightweight 17" aftermarket rims. Separate from this is an issue that was brought to my attention by two separate mechanics about leaking power-steering fluid due to a damaged boot on the rack&pinion. Both suggested the rack&pinion be replaced or rebuilt. The second mechanic took a look at the suspension, struts, mounts, etc. and was unable to explain the pop. He was also unable to duplicate it. (A fluke, if you ask me.) Had a full tune-up, oil-seals replaced to fix leaks. Passed TX inspection with no problem.
Finally, there is the weight issue. While the vehicle seats four comfortably, I am unable to drive with as many people in the car due to the tops of the rear wheels rubbing the inside of the wheel well.
My Theory: A suspension problem, involving the tall, wide wheels. I've thought about installing a more rigid, coil-over suspension to see if it will allow me to carry more weight and possibly solve the popping, but haven't wanted to spend the money.
Thanks again for the help.
Mar 31, 2009 at 5:07 PM