AboutDennis W Expertise I am a retired Ford master tech specializing in electrical, climate control, emissions, driveability, chassis, brakes, and any light repairs. Currently employed by an independent shop that appreciates my knowledge and abilities.
Cannot answer transmission or parts questions, these are not areas of my expertise.
Experience 32 years of auto repair, diagnosis, and emissions testing, in service staions, independent garages, and 20 years with Ford dealers.
Organizations National Street Rod Association (NSRA)
International Automotive Technicians Network (IATN)
www.blueovaltechs.com
IAMAW (retired)
National Street Rod Association
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Education/Credentials Riverside City College Automotive technology program
Ford Master Tech Certified Engine and Chassis Master (Over 500 hours)
ASE Certified in 7 categories
6 years training in Union 76 Pro-tech program
Awards and Honors 4-time Technician of the Year at Almaden Lincoln Mercury
Ford Master Tech
Union 76 Pro-tech Master tech
Question I have a 2001 Ford Ranger with 63,000 miles on it. The truck runs great, but the front end groans when turning or going over bumps. It's not the power steering unit. The tires wear pretty well, as long as I rotate them, and I've had it aligned. The problem is much more prevalent in the summer months and becomes worse with the increases in ambient temperature. During the winter, at temperatures under about 70 degrees, it's tight and quiet. There is no abnormal play in the ball joints (minimal wheel movement top to bottom on front wheels). Is this just the result of sealed bushings and suspension points that cannot be lubricated? Any suggestions, short of replacing tie rod ends, etc?
Thanks
Answer The outer tie rod ends are notorious for drying out and causing noise. You can check them with a wrench on the adjustment nut, if they are hard to turn or feel very stiff then they are bad. Sometimes you can even hear the noise when moving them manually.
Yes, to answer your question if they are stiff or noisey they should be replaced. Ford, like many OEMs, did not provide for lubrication. By "dry" I am referring to the lack of lube, which causes the ball socket to wear and eventually cause noise, which is usually the first sign you might notice. I'm surprised that an alignment tech didn't check this, unless he was unaware of the noise.
Tie rods are the first thing I would check, but not necessarily the only possible choice for the source of your noise.
