I installed new control arms, sway bar links and upper strut mounts and spring seats in our '97 850. amazing difference.
But, when the steering wheel is turned, there's a noise coming from the driver's side spring seat. I had the hood up and could see what it was doing - as the strut assembly turns in the bearing, it's kinda ratcheting around and makes a friction like noise. when I raise the front end off the ground it won't do it. it turns smoothly- only under the weight of the car. I even took off the upper bump stop and loosened the star-shaped nut. still did it.
anyone know what's causing this and how to get it to stop? It kinda reminds me of when bearings are too tight in a head set.

thanks.

 

Hi,

I know it's tiring but you may want to take the driver side strut assembly off and rebuild it. One question: Did you replace the upper mount (bearing) that sits on top of the spring seats? The upper mounts have bearings for steering and it is usually a good idea to replace them when you replace the upper spring mounts.

Here's what I do:
1. Clean all metal-to-metal contact areas with oil/WD-40 an lightly sand it.
2. Re-assemble the strut IAW the service manual, following each torque (except the cross nut, which I hit lightly with a pin punch & 8oz hammer). Keep dust/FODs during this procedure.
3. Replace all parts (bump stop, special washer, top cap & all lock nuts).
4. Set the coil springs, keeping the ends in their nests.
5. Install the piston rod nut & torque.
6. Clean the mating surface inside the strut tower housing.

I'll attacha pic and have circled the parts I would replace. Now, I've circles the upper mount with Red & Blue did you replace this part? Also, double check the ball joint.


I hope this is of some use for you.


JPN


[IMG]local://upfiles/6892/8EF6FBBD331347678704550E43A7189C.jpg[/IMG]

 

yeah, I replaced the upper mount and spring seat on both sides.
It's almost like the bearings are pitted in the upper mount. I guess I'm gonna have to remove that side again, which kinda blows, but oh well.
thanks for the feedback.