*clunk* sound from my rear?

[trdrun]

So I'm on stock suspension ('97 3rd gen), and I decided to go up this sidewalk. The front went up slowly, but after I got the front up I quickly forgot about going up slowly for the rear wheels.

I accelerated. My rear wheels when up on to the sidewalk and I heard a loud *clunk* while I was at it.

Is this *cluck* from the axle hitting the frame? Does this mean I need new rear shocks and/or springs??

Please advise. THANKS. Also, my front right wheel would make that same noise if I were to let the wheel drop from a sidewalk onto the street first (before any of the other wheels).

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Sidewalks are probably 6" high at most so I doubt it was the axle.

Does it drive or handle any differently?

 

[scheme56]

your stock shocks may be old, weak and could be bottoming out... do they make the same sound going over potholes? you also may want to check your suspension and steering components for any loose parts.... make sure all bolts are tightened to specs.

 

[trdrun]

It doesn't seem to handle differently. Same as always, since I got it couple years back.

The suspension probably is old. But no, I don't get the clunk when going over potholes.

Also, what is 'bottoming out'? I here the term, and I can sorta imagine what it is. But a clear definition would be nice.

Can my problem be solved by getting new shocks?

 

[4daRUNNER]

3rd Gen Runners have a recall on its rear suspension. have you had that checked out? take a picture of your rear suspension (both sides) and post it up here.

 

[trdrun]

3rd Gen Runners have a recall on its rear suspension. have you had that checked out? take a picture of your rear suspension (both sides) and post it up here.

Okay, will do! I'll get to it soon, in a day or two.

 

[trdrun]

I finally got around to taking the photos and uploading it. i hope this helps in solving my problem:

Wow, look at what the heat did to the paint on the vortex muffler:

 

[4daRUNNER]

it doesnt look like you have had yours done yet. have you called the dealer? here's some pictures of mine without the new bump stops.

without new bump stops

 

[4daRUNNER]

okay i'm back with some new pictures. notice that all bump stops are new (differently shaped too).

take a look at the cone-like shaped bump stop in the middle of the coil spring itself (picture of the driver rear).

with new bumpstops :

 

[trdrun]

The recall was regarding bumper stops?

I got this 4runner used. So can I just call up a nearby Toyota dealer and get the bumper stops installed?

Are you talking about the bumper stops in green or in blue?

Edit: Okay, now I see you are referring to both.

 

[4daRUNNER]

yes the bump stops that you circled are correct. they install new bump stops.

where are you looked? In the U.S. ? if so, call your nearest Toyota dealer (as others will call them stealers).

 

[trdrun]

Yeah, i'm located in san diego, CA right now.

As long as I don't need to pay, its all good.... :bigok:

I'll give them a call. Thanks dude!

 

[97-4xFunner]

A "clunking sound" from your "rear end". Sounds like you better get an a** gasket inspection from your proctologist!:lmao: