Front suspension creaks&clunks

[Classic]

My E type SII FHC is demanding attention to her front suspension!
She goes very well at speed on nice paved roads but going slowly it creaks and clunks over any imperfection.

I’m assuming that it could be repiared by replacing wishbone, antiroll bar and drop link bushes. Is there anything else I should be aware of?

Thanks

[AshM]

If you are stripping it all down to replace those items you list I would suggest replacing, top/bottom ball joints plus steering rack mountings/track rod ends at the same time too. Get everything to the same time point.

Also, check you do not have worn sockets in wishbones.

Having done the same job recently I purchased a bearing/bush press kit from eBay. Money well spent - makes the removal and replacement so much easier (actually a very satisfying process).

Tub of red rubber grease too.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

cheers
Ash

[Series1 Stu]

Before you go stripping things down why not try loosening off the wishbone fulcrum and shock absorber mounting nuts a little, give the suspension a good bouncing and then re-tighten with the weight of the car on the wheels?

You'd be amazed how many people fully re-assemble suspension with the car up in the air, including so called professionals, which can lead to squeaking, creaking and banging.

Worth a try?

Regards

[abowie]

Also, check you do not have worn sockets in wishbones.

This is the only thing you can't fix.

Personally I'd replace all the rubber bushes and the lower ball joints (Lemforder sealed units for the XJ6 fit nicely and work well).

[Moeregaard]

I addressed mystery clunks in another thread a while back, but I'll mention it again. The lower damper bolt has an annoying tendency to seize itself to the steel bushing, as well as the lower A-arm, leading to one more clunk in the front end. You'll notice it most on minor road irregularities at low speed. Replace the bolt, steel damper bushing, and lather everything with copper grease during reassembly. You'll have one less clunk up there.

[Classic]

Txs for all responses, they are all very clear!

I’m buying SNGBarratt front suspension kit, seems to have everything I need. I’ve chosen rubber bushes rather than poly, from what I’ve read they are better for the e type.

Any experience with a.m. kit?

[AshM]

Yes - I purchased same kit and all was fine.

Agree with rubber choice for suspension.

Cheers
Ash