Front end noise

Truck started making this clanking/popping noise when the front end is flexing. It doesn't happen around town, only when flexing the front on the trail. I've poked around and haven't been able to figure it out. What do you guys suggest I check?

Crank that audio up so you can hear it

https://youtube.com/shorts/QjUPdgDZUl0?feature=share

 

I think...that's your chain from your spare tire slapping back and forth. The video shows you going through some rough/uneven trails and that would certainly cause it to sway heavily from side to side.

 

Nah, it's definitely 100% coming from the front end. You can feel it popping under your feet.

 

It sounds like it's coming from the front suspension area. Metal to metal. I hope nothing worse.

 

Right, it's likely something front suspension related as it only happens when I'm flexing on the trail.

Was hoping someone might know of something I could check before I take this thing to a shop. I'd like to fix it myself but I can't seem to find the culprit

 

Have you changed suspension components? Lifts? Does this also happen around town when driving over a bump stops?

 

Do you have a go-pro. Slap that down in there mounted to find the problem. If you do it a few times with the camera in different locations, you can see your suspension move and hear where it's coming from.

If you don't have a go-pro, any other recording device will work. Make sure you strap it down securely as you don't want to run it over.

You can even use your cell phone but you'll have to make some kind of mount. You can use multi zip ties as well but this is at your own risk.

Also, go over every bolt in the front end and torque it down to spec. Then also wiggle every part to make sure its not loose and there is no play. Also check your lug nuts as well.


Have you changed your suspension? Miles on your truck? Do you recall hitting anything hard enough in the past that make you go "Ohh Shit"?

 

I'd check your cab mount bushings, notably the radiator ones. Those are known to wear out early from what I've seen. Sounds like metal on metal creaking.

 

Was gonna say the same thing

 

So quick on a 2019?

 

Definitely possible, sadly. Especially if it gets off roaded and flexed more than an average Tacoma. Good news is it would be an easy fix.

 

Some good suggestions thanks guys. Yea it's a 2019 with just under 50k miles. I have not hit anything hard and I wheel pretty slow with it. I do have an aftermarket dobinsons lift kit with SPC uppers, so it's not oem. I'll check those body mount bushings and maybe try the gopro route.