Hello Everyone:
Has anyone every used a Steelman Pro Chassis ears to find a suspension noise? Would like some feed back before I buy one to see if it worth buying.

Joe

 

No experience with the Steelman kit, but the concept is "sound". Very.

Not just chassis. Noisy brakes, wheel bearings, transmission / differential, motor problems, 'etc.'.

One probably already has at least part of the capability in-hand to "try it and see'?

Impaired hearing here. Rolled my own. Coupla cheap sets of four or so contact microphones sold for electric guitar goods. Around $20 the set of four? Cheap enough to not worry about damage.

Already owned a Rigol 4-channel multi-mode oscilloscope.
Lap top or cell phone with any common audio toolset that has "graphical analysis" display - as most DO already have - can serve, too.

Either way, it gets me a 'visual' recording, so my bad ears don't affect the information.


Mics are cheap most anywhere. The "contact" type are not overly dear - just less likely to be found in blister paks at the grocery store.

 

I have used very similar tools used to locate and create vibration signature in rotating equipment. Very powerful tool, but, I suggest you consider cost, how many times you will use, and, there is a learning curve.

I might suggest, before you embark on this, get a can of Fluid Film, and give a squirt to probable cause locations and see if noise (squeak? squeel?) abates. If it's clunks and rattles you are looking for, getting on a frame lift and flexing suspension at the four corners usually makes it obvious what part is at fault.

That said, if you are looking for a drive-train issue (out-of-round wheel, driveshaft imbalance, u-joint, etc.) issue, this tool is invaluable and a great diagnostic tool.