Knock/thunk when braking on 2010 - Axle wrap?

Hi all. I'm still relatively new on here, though I've compiled a bunch of great info already. I recently noticed a noise when I apply the brakes, and it appears to be coming from the front. Hear it a bit when backing out the driveway, but it's more prominent when going forwards. I would best describe the sound as almost like 2 metal plates banging together...there's no ring or echo. It's not bone-jarring either. Just annoying. I haven't found anything loose in the front-suspension. No sore thumbs sticking out.

I did some searching on TW and found the "axle wrap" topic. Is that what I'm suffering from? It sounds like it's coming from the front, but I know that can sometimes be misleading.

All help is much appreciated...thanks.

 

Caliper slap. Ignore.

 

^^ Yup, its the pads sliding in the caliper. If you pay attention, it will only do it once on the first brake application going forward, and once the next time you apply the brakes in reverse. No biggie, nothing to be worried about, unless it doesn't fit this description.

 

is there a caliper clap fix?

 

I usually use brake grease or anti seize on the caliper tabs to remedy the caliper clap sound.

 

Why has nobody mentioned the possibility of a failed control arm bushing? There is a good possibility that you have excessive movement when the brakes are applied causing a knock like you describe. Unfortunately, removal of LCA/UCA or a visual confirmation beneath the vehicle during braking is about the only way to see if they are deflecting outside of intended range.

 

Wow. I almost stated in my OP that it sounded as if the calipers were clanking together. And...it does seem that it only happens once. So, it definitely sounds like it meets the criteria for "caliper slap". I'd be interested in knowing if there's anything that might minimize eliminate it. Sure, I can ignore it...which I've been doing. But seems odd. I examined the control arms last night to see if I maybe had lost a bushing somewhere or to see if there was excessive "play", but didn't see anything. That was before I put my post up.

Thanks for the prompt response. Certainly interested if others have comment.

 

Thanks goodness you wrote this up, my 08 dc 4x4 that I just put new wheels and tires on started making this same noise (exactly how you explained it). I am going to have a tech friend of mine check it out just in case.

 

My 2010 is doing exactly as described. Reputable shop (Les Schwab) thinks it the LCA bushings. They did let me under and there is movement. But I'm driver, not a mechanic. How much play is normal vs excessive?

As noted I have about 70k on it and very little rough terrain. Mostly highway miles.

ET