problems wit my 84

[bpmatt]

i have an 84 toyota 4runner and for about 2 weeks i have been hearing this knocking noise as if there was a lump in my tire. i purchased new tires cuz it was time for new ones but i still hear that noise as if there is still a lump in a tire (i think the noise is coming from the front). i figure it is the suspension or shocks or somethin cuz when i rev my engine or im just in neutral i dont hear that sound. it only occurs when my car is moving. what can it be?
im also wondering about my shock absorbers, ever since ive had my car it just seemed like i needed them. whenever i hit a little bump or even a speed bump it just feels like i have no shocks what so ever. it slams off every bump. should i replace my shocks or what else should i replace to make a smoother ride on my 84 4runner.

 

[PROZAC]

New shocks and springs (the strut) will improve ride quality!

The problem you have might very well be your wheel bearing is shot. You will only experience noise when the vehicle is in motion.

 

[Jim_Chow]

Does the sound occur only when you're turning or moving straight. If the latter, maybe the bearing. If the former, the birfields are likely shot. Either way, you ought to repack the birfields, replace the bearings in the knuckle, and service/inspect/replace the front wheel bearings unless you know it's been recently serviced. The birfields should be repacked at 60K mile intervals, front wheel bearings at 30K mile intervals. I guess that's the drawback w/ a rigid front axle truck (the birfields), though I'd be prefer it to IFS.