Going over the railroad tracks = loud and jolting

Greetings to everyone,

I have a 2003 Tacoma PreRunner that has a problem while going over railroad crossings. It seems that the rear axle is where all the action is happening. The sharp jolt and loud rattling associated with uneven surfaces leads me to believe it is a suspension issue. I'll feel it on a bumpy stretch of road but not as bad as going over railroad crossings. I am hoping to hear from someone that dealt with the same problem and what the outcome/cost was.

Thanks in advance

 

How many miles? Are you on original shocks? is the truck lifted?

 

Worn out leafs resulting in a firm jolt with the bumpstops?

 

It has 65.000 miles (I have a take home work vehicle) and I replaced the original shocks a little over a year ago

 

No aftermarket lift either.

 

Hard to tell without more detail or pics...but even then we'd just be guessing. An 18 year vehicle it could be any number of things, I would start by checking all the bolts and making sure nothing is coming loose. The spare tire holder can get noisy if it's loose or starting to fail. There is a recall for the spare tire holder on most 1st gens that dealerships will still honor today if you haven't had it done yet.

 

Shocks dampen vibration and aid in on road comfort. Leaf springs hold you at ride height. If your spring are worn they will sag. If they sag and you go over lets say a....rail road track. You could be hitting your bump stop.

 

"doctor, it hurts when I do this." Well then, don't do that."


Couldnt help myself.


Check the leaf bushings.

 

I was going to guess worn shocks. But considering they’re fairly new, it’s a tough call. And I’m doubting the leaf’s are worn on a truck with only 65k miles. What type of tires are you running? How old?

 

Milestar Grantland tires. I have had them on for 3 about years.

 

I'd bet money it's your leaf springs. mine were worn and id slam my bump stops at railroad tracks every time. jarring hits with a loud thud from. the rear end.