Cold Weather Rattle

[MONTYMTB]

Need some opinions from you 4th gen guys. Trying to help a buddy diagnose a rattle coming from the front drivers side - sounds like metal on metal.

Details:
'03 Sport Edition
V8
2WD
Bone stock, no lift
XREAS
Only hear it during colder weather (under 50 or so) when going over bumps
Happens in straight line and during turns
Happens when brakes are applied

I'm thinking some sort of bushing since it's temp related.
Looked at his end links, but the bushings look different than the ones on my 3rd gen.

Thoughts? Any similar experience/solution or just pointing in right direction much appreciated.

 

[MarkinWMich]

1. Anti rattle clips on the brake pads...common.
2. CV axles...usually associated with other signs/symptoms.
3. Worn ball joints (upper or lower) or tie rod ends...usually associated with other signs/symptoms.

 

[MONTYMTB]

1. Anti rattle clips on the brake pads...common.
2. CV axles...usually associated with other signs/symptoms.
3. Worn ball joints (upper or lower) or tie rod ends...usually associated with other signs/symptoms.

#1 - should be ruled out because only happening below a certain temp.
#2 & #3 - no other signs or symptoms, quiet as a mouse above certain temp.

 

[MarkinWMich]

I'm not a materials engineer, but I think all materials, like metal, plastic, and rubber, will expand and contract in response to temperature. Anyone who lives in areas where they get extreme cold in the Winter and extreme hot in the Summer will tell you that some of those noises can come and go with rises and falls in temperature. So, having said that, you had a concern about a temperature-sensitive noise...I wouldn't be too quick to rule out the brakes just yet.

Your concern regarding worn bushings likely would not cause metal-to-metal noise unless there is almost no bushing material. In which case, visual inspection of the bushings would quickly reveal the source of your noise. In addition, significantly worn bushings would also be accompanied by some drivability issues, abnormal tire wear, steering wheel shudder, and/or some other signs/symptoms.