Clunk from front suspension (maddening)

[Johnmed]

Hi all.

I have a faint clunk from the N/S/F wheel area at slow speeds. I trial fitted a replacement ARB from our sponsors. This made no difference.

Needing the car for commuting and work itself I have called in at a few garages, who’ve been too busy to get the thing on the lift. One garage mechanic said it would be the droplinks.

I removed the anti rollbar droplinks (that I replaced a while back) and without the ARB connected the noise was gone.

I though ahaaa! It could be the droplinks. I replaced them with some Lemforders from ECPs, and crossed my fingers.

The noise returned!!!!

Could the issue be the bushes on the ARB, (which look like new) or something else?

Could the ARB and droplinks just be connected to the problem?


I’m stumped.

[Joe2.0E]

Based on your description, I think it may well be the ARB bushes.
I put big miles on my 04 D3 when I had it and the ARB had to be replaced at one point as the bushes weren’t available on their own.
They were only available from Audi with the complete ARB.
Drop Links were replaced at least 3 times as they barely lasted 50 - 60 K miles but they relatively cheap and quick/easy to fit.

[Johnmed]

Thanks for your input Joe. I’ve ordered some Powerflex bushes. So we’ll see if they make an improvement. I’m on 170k+ now, so things will wear out.

[Joe2.0E]

You’re welcome. I’d say I was at 200K miles when I had to replace the ARB.
I think the bushes are bonded/glued to the original ARB.

[Johnmed]

That’s how Audi sell them Joe. You’re right. I have read of people, (I think in the US) over the years having success renewing the bushes alone.

I’m sceptical. But we live and learn!

[Johnmed]

Update:

Powerflex bushes were incorrect fitment. Got some Febest, fitted them with new droplinks, and took the undertray off (for good). Clunks and squeaks gone. Drives like a different car.

AT LAST.

My mild male autism can now find something else to be obsessed and maddened with!