Squeaky Ford

[paceman]

2001 ford expedition. 80,000 miles. During the last week or so a loud squeak squeaky grind sound has developed whenever I drive over rough ground. It sounds like it is coming from the front. I can stand and push on the truck and hear it as well. Not being much of a mechanic I think it might be shocks?

[Shack]

My first thought is a noisy sway-bar link(s) or sway bar bushing. Best way to pinpoint (be careful) is to get on the ground and try to see where the noise is coming from when someone is pushing on truck's front end. It could be another front end part also, but the above two items I would say are the most common.

[Jeremy airjer W]

or one of the lower ball joints, upper ball joints, tie rod ends (tie rod ends usually make the noise when turning)! If they have never been replaced it would be worth having them inspected.

[Scott K]

Airjer has you on the right track, lay on the ground and having someone bounce on the front bumper should duplicate the noise. It can be anything from a sway bar link, to tierod ends, idler arm, pitmen arm, or ball joints.

[paceman]

Thanks Guys!!!!! Time to get dirty.......

[paceman]

As usual you guys were right on the money. Took it to my local mechanic whom I know and trust. The noise is coming from my upper ball joint on the drivers side. Looks like they are all showing wear so I am going to replace all 4 in the front.

[TonkaBass]

I wish fords had better front ends. I feel your pain.