2000 Explorer Clunks, sounds "loose" suspension

A "click" or "thump" noise can be caused by several factors, including: suspension: Loose or worn suspension components, such as control arm bushings, control arm connections, and struts, can cause rattling noises when climbing over bumps. Drivetrain: Worn or damaged drive shafts, constant velocity joints, or differential components can also cause rattling noise. break: Worn or loose brake parts such as calipers and rotors can cause a rattling noise when applying and releasing the brakes. engine: If the engine rattles, there may be a problem with the engine mounts or the timing belt. These are just some of the possible causes of knocking noise and an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a specialist after an inspection.

jack up front and inspect the suspension clunk can be anything from strut failure to loose or failed new parts

check that the exhaust system is fitted correctly and all the rubber straps are in good condition. Check for loose shock absorber mounting rubbers. Have the rear suspension checked out for broken/ failed suspension point rubbers.

noises or clunks in rear ends are indications of worn suspension rubbers and other rubber mounted items , drive line joint failures
the front end noise could be brake pad and rotor problems so have them checked by an accredited brake shop

Sorry dude, it is hard enough trying to keep up with all of the clunks and bumps and squeaks and rattles that occur on vehicles with factory suspension parts. When modifications are made...it is anybody's guess.

All I can tell you is to diagnose the problem the way any auto technician would diagnose any other suspension noise...get it on a lift and perform a thorough inspection and/or have someone bounce the car up and down while you stick your head under it and see if you can tell where the noise is coming from.

It's hard to tell, from your description, as to the extent of the clunking.
If it seems to only and constantly occur whenever in forward motion, bumps or not, then I would first check your rear differential, (if 4x4 then your front differential as well).
Check fluid level(s) and if okay, remove cover and check for worn gears and any metal shavings on the magnet on bottom of housing.

Worn gears can toss your vehicle around, any make stomach turning clunks and other awful noises. I've recently replaced a front differential on a 1994 Dakota. It would make same clunks as you describe and a few times would make my back end seem to 'hop' while driving highway speeds. I would check this quickly.

If it only seems to happen over bumps, then your guess on engine mounts or bushings is probably the best guess.

Dear Clunks And Shakes.......This sounds like a very fun ride!!! We need to address this asap....Ok...From what I got out of this and my extensive background.....it sounds like one of two front end suspension issues.... Either your upper control arm bushings have failed.....or your balljoints have an incredible amount of play in them....It sure sounds like upper control arm bushings to me tho.....please get back to me so we can get this figured out for ya...I'll help ya thru it...I HOPE I HELPED!!!

you need to get the front end checked. it sounds like a suspension problem possibly your struts or sway bar but it could be a more serious problem. hope this helps

I had the same problem drove me near nuts ,lift up hood on outside back at hinge ,hits on cowl put piece of rubber or cork under hinge rattle will stop. Took me 2 months to find this problem. good luck

Check the macpherson struts to ensure they are not loose.  One way to check is visually in the engine compartment.  Check the top of the struts to ensure the nuts are not loose.  Another is to raise the side of the van where you hear the clunk.  Raise it so the wheel is off the ground.  Grasp and shake the strut to see if it is loose.  The struts should not be loose, but you never know.  As the strut is certainly ivnolved in bumps and rotates when the wheel turns, I would check there since you have already explored the bushings and links.