[frenetic1amnesic]

I'm having an issue with a loud clunk from the front end when going over larger bumps in the road that extend the suspension.

I've got an 07 Hemi WK with an OME HD lift. I first installed the lift with Bilstein HD struts in the front and 5125s in the rear from Kolak. I wanted 5100 series Bilsteins because I had them on my WJ and they rode like an absolute dream, and Kolak said they could be fitted to the rear with a couple washers.

Long story short, I couldn't stand them in the WK. The ride was extremely harsh; nothing like they were in the WJ. I eventually switched to the OME Nitrochargers like I should have gotten from the beginning, and they ride so much better.

The switch to Nitrochargers fixed most of my problems except for the clunk from up front on extension. I know what the loose nut at the top of the strut sounds like because I've already been through that the first time around, so I'm pretty sure that's not the problem in this case. I would describe the noise of the loose strut nut to be a hollow knocking over smaller bumps and road imperfections, but the noise I'm having now is a much louder jolt, and it only happens when the suspension significantly extends. Going over an expansion joint on a bridge with a steep drop-off, or going over a speed bump too fast is the easiest way to get that noise.

Could this be the ball joints? It seems like maybe the UCA is fully extending and hitting the end of the ball joint's travel. Maybe a motor mount? I don't know, I'm just throwing ideas out there. For what it's worth, I also replaced the sway bar bushings.

 

[05Wk704]

Yes! Someone please respond to this. I have the same issue. Only addition is when going over normal bumps/imperfections in the road (man hole covers ect) it sounds like something up front is loose. Gets worse the longer I drive but maybe that's just me being more worried/aware of te issue. Any feedback would be a HUGE help. Ivehad 1 diff mount replaced bydealerbsaying hats the prob butit wasn't....shocker

 

[4.whoa]

to check ball joints use a "gooseneck" or "waterpump" pliers to squish the joint. you should be able to see movement if its bad.

have you checked the control arm bolts (both upper & lower)? some have had noises from them.

 

[tfranzone]

seems to be the most common issue in all WKs.. pretty sure changing out the sway bar bushings will do the trick... worked for others. I'm doing it at 60K.

 

[frenetic1amnesic]

Woah, I haven't been back for a while, didn't realize I got some replies.

Front diff mount. That's something I hadn't thought of... I don't have the clunk when shifting into reverse so I hadn't really considered the diff mounts, but I'll look into that I guess.

I will check the control arm bolts when I get a chance, weather should be a bit nicer tomorrow.

I replaced the sway bar bushings maybe at 80k miles (at 100k rigt now), and surprisingly didn't notice any difference. I'll try disconnecting the end links next. I haven't had much free time to work on the WK recently, so the clunks have kinda been on the back burner.

edit: I'll also try checking the ball joint like you mentioned. Didn't really know how to check them.

 

[05Wk704]

I'm hoping the clunk in my case is bushings and/or rod ends. I do have a slight clunk in shifting PRND. The dealer months ago said the problem I have (same one I still have) is the diff mounts. They did replace one that was tore up pretty good but I still have the clunking.
The reason I'm hoping its the bushings or rod ends is because that wasa $500 bill from the "stealership". Open to any suggestions or ideas please.

 

[JeePerf]

I installed a set of super duty Polyurethane front differential Bushings from JeePerf.com and the clunking is gone.