Boxster '01 cluttering front noise

[kaa]

Hello everybody

Could anybody tell me what is the reason for that strange cluttering noise from some where at the front wheels? It happens only at low speed even on a slightly rough road.
When I drive on a hwy - everything is ok. Porsche speciallist didn't find anything

[Fluellen]

Is this sort of a rapidly repeating clanking sound? As if something is repeatedly bouncing up and down as you drive slowly over rough areas?

If so, I have that too - I suspect the control arm bushings, but am not sure...

[jhandy]

its a bushing problem. Usual suspect is the lower arm.
If you are going that far, replace all bushings that can be replaced within reason.
It will make a world of difference in the handling of the car.

You cant tell if the control arm bushings are bad by looking or pulling on them. Its a leap of faith repair.

[kaa]

The sound is seldom.
I can here it only on 25-40 miles speed on a slightly rough road.
Thanks for replays, I'll doublecheck bushings

[jakekit]

I've got similar noises. I did a ton of searching and research. I've got similar noises from the rear. I want it to be the sway droplinks and bushings, but I'm sure its the control arms in the front and the control arm trailing arms in the rear. Considerable costs differences.

[jhandy]

if you have it in you, you can buy the bushings seperatly for about 60 back and 40$ front.

Also you should check out Vertex auto's referb arms. pay full price send yours back for core.
The car is transformed when you replace these crap bushings. It has degraded slowly over the years and you just dont notice until you replace and the car is tight like new.

[Fluellen]

Jhandy, where can you buy the bushings?

[jhandy]

http://www.design911.co.uk/fu/pt385_389_-cma81-cmo82/Porsche/Boxster/Track-Control-Arms/


http://www.ruderacing.co.uk/p263650/Powerflex_Rear_Track_Control_Arm_Bushes_for_Porsch e_Boxster_(986)/product_info.html


http://www.merlinmfgusa.com/motorsports_products__services


store.powerflexusa.com/porsche-boxster-1997---2004-urethane-bushings-p80.aspx

range from solid to urethane.
I am sure there are other sources.

[Fluellen]

Thanks! Seems a better idea though to go with new control arms - even if you replace the bushings, you still have a potentially worn out ball joint...

[Fluellen]

Update: I replaced the front sway bar drop links, and the clatter is gone...