Mystery Thunk Sound -FIXED

[HeavyFuel]

  Sounds like a drum brake shoe popping back into place!    

Could be the back shoe, but the noise sounds like its up front.   I have disks.

It sounds kinda sketchy, but if I could SAFELY feel the components as the noise occurs, I suppose that would help isolate it's origin.   

[Ghoste]

Steering box in tight, maybe just K-frame flex?

[DeltaV]

I would check:
(1) lower balljoints. Replace them with another set.
(2) torsion bars. Measure each end and the  mating parts.
(3) Thoroughly clean and lube prior to reassembly.

[DeltaV]

Check the strut rods too.

I use NAPA Sil-Glide on elatomeric parts for ease of assembly.

[HeavyFuel]

Discovered the source of the clunk.

Loose cross member (k frame) bolt.

Not exactly loose, but not to spec 150 ft lbs.

You can see how the strut rod transfers force to the front arm of the k frame.  When conditions were right, (braking) the force would be sufficient to overcome the grip of the bolt on the frame arm, and bend it slightly and suddenly, causing a thump.


By the way, I wasn't the last one to touch those bolts, prior to me torquing them down tonight.        

[Mopar Nut]

Glad to see you fixed it.

[VegasCharger]

Great detective there Heavy Fuel

[DeltaV]

Excellent. Glad you posted the fix. I was losing sleep sleep over it!