My '89 745GL (144,000mi) has developed a clunk/snap in the right (passenger) side of the front end that occurs during low-speed cornering close to steering lock. I honestly don't know how long it's been going on because it's only audible with the windows open and it's only been warm enough to drive around like that for a short time.

I stuck my head under the front end and noticed that the rubber bushing on the right ball joint is much more compressed than on the left, but no tears/leaks are visible. Would it be safe to assume that it's the ball joint at fault, or could it just as likely be the upper strut mount bearing?

Also, is this the kind of thing I should get fixed immediately, or can I just get it done the next time the car's in the shop? Thanks all--

jeff daigle
'89 745GL 144,000mi

Jeff- While I agree you should replace the balljoint, I have been riding on a bad one for a week now(200+ miles). I tried to replace it last week but I could not seperate it from the contol arm, 14 yrs. have jammed it in there good. I visually check it every couple days and add some lubricate if needed. It is very unlikely a balljoint will break or seperate from the joint. My brick drives fine (80+ mph), just that clunk on bad roads. In any case, I will attempt to replace balljoint again this weekend. Try to take care of yours in the next month, but remember you have been driving on this bad balljoint for a while so it is not going to hurt to continue to drive it. Visually inspect acual joint, and bolts securing it to suspension. Good Luck.
Rob Mac

Thanks, that's what I thought. It's going in on Monday, needs a new T-belt anyway.

jeff daigle
'89 745GL 144,000mi

If it is the ball joint, and from what you describe it most likely is, it should be fixed immediately. If it breaks free your suspension assembly, (wheel, caliper, rotor,) has no lower support and will be free to hang by the upper strut mount and tie rod end. If it doesn't separate from the car you'll likely drive over it. For pics:

http://fcpgroton.com/volvo700900ftsuspension.htm

Get it repaired asap.
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Erwin in Memphis, '88 745t 183,000 miles, '95 855t For Sale

Drat.

The soonest I can get it repaired is this weekend. Will I be running the risk of the ball joint falling apart if I drive it another 150 highway miles? Aside from the noise there aren't any other symptoms.

jeff daigle
'89 745GL 144,000mi

As stated, maybe of probably not. I wouldn't take that to mean ignore it until you get around to it. I wanted to let you know how important it was to safety (and possible expensive damage to the other components) have it repaired asap.
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Erwin in Memphis, '88 745t 183,000 miles, '95 855t For Sale

Probably not.