OT - 99 Grand Am Steering problem ???

[RayP(MI)]

Son brought his wife's car into my FARM shop to check out noise in steering. Jacked it up and checked, found front spring was rubbing and jerking, sliding on lower spring mount when wheels were turned. Produces a series of thumping sounds as it rotates. How is this supposed to work, what's wrong and what is the solution?

 

[Bob]

Sounds like the "strut mount" that attaches the top of the strut to the car, and allows it to pivot has failed.

<img src = "http://info.rockauto.com/getimage/getimage.php?imageurl=http%3A//info.rockauto.com/KYB/SM5146.JPG">

 

[RayP(MI)]

Thanks, Bob. That"s what I was thinking, and has been confirmed by a couple of local mechanics/suspension specialists. Son is taking it in for repair and allignment tomorrow. Just add $$$$$$!