1. our newly acquired 86 xj6 has a really bad clanking sound on pasngr front wheel when hittin the slightest bump or pot hole. local garage thought dead/empty shocks but no thinks ball joint/bushings, any diagnostic thoughts and cheap parts sources.

2. looking for a good 86 jag mechanic near greenwich ct 06830


thanks in advance

 

wjones, you can check the ball joints/tie rod ends yourself. To check the tie rod ends, you lift the front tire in question off of the ground and then grab on to the side of the tire (NEVER!!! the top and bottom). Now, using your body, attempt to turn the tire. Have a second person watch the tie rod end for play. If you see some, replace. You can also look at the ball joints for signs of movement too at this point.

Next, using a long screw driver or other type of pry bar, place the pry bar under the edge of the tire and attempt to push the tire towards the center of the car. As applying force, watch the ball joints for movement. If you see some, replace that ball joint. Normally, if 1 is showing signs of movement and the other one isn't, the one not showing movement is close to needing replacement too and is normally a good idea just to replace both at the same time so you only need 1 alignment service.

You may want to also look at the bushings for the front suspension arms. If you still have the factory bushings, it is possible over time they have worn and are now showing signs of play. You can check these at the same time you are checking the ball joints.

It is just a matter of getting the tire in the air and seeing where you have movement and where you don't.

Chris "Thermo" Coleman