So I replaced the tie rod ends, control arms, sway bar bushings and links (all moog), complete struts, and axles (cardone). Afterwards I now have a clunk when going forward to reverse and vice versa. I can't figure out what it is. I thought it was the axles so I filed a warranty claim and got 2 new ones. Sound is exactly the same. I cant find anything loose. Anyone have any ideas?
I would tend to agree. I was watching the wheels in the reflection of the vehicle next to you. I thought it might be brake pads until I noticed that the wheels never moved, so that theory was shot down.
Hmm, I thought I checked those, but Ill have another look. I should say, both sides do it. If the wheel is turned, one side will clunk, then the other side
Tightened the tie rod ends and axle with an impact. I didnt torque them, but I can. Also, subframe bushings? Where are those? I dropped the subframe to do the sway bar bushings but pretty sure everything was put back together properly.
Can't help much, but you will want to torque at least the axle nuts to whatever their specified torque is. Too tight will cause premature hub/bearing failure. I usually just tighten the tie rod ends till they feel tight enough, as I don't think those being too tight can hurt anything. +1 on checking the motor mounts and other various bushings from me as well, might be helpful to have someone else watch and see if there is excessive movement while you are doing whatever is being done to create the noise.
The only thing I can honestly think if its forward to reverse is the axles engaging. They need more torque than an impact. Tie rods can pop their socket if torqued more than a hand wrench and your arm. But if you dropped subframe those need crazy torque too. I would check tranny and engine mounts to be safe bc if you dropped sub with no support you could have ripped em.
I can push the car forward/backwards and make the noise happen. It looks like the outer cv joint on both axles are slipping slightly. Returning them and getting oem axles.