diagnosing suspension clunk, rattle, and roll...

[rhetoric]

1996 i30. History: Driving slow over bumpy ground (grass, gravel, etc.) it clunks a little bit, but runs just fine on pavement and tracks straight and true. Been doing that for awhile. Drove to Vermont recently, took the twisties through the ADK mountains (fun) but the roads were major league rough and after a couple hours of that we noticed a light rattle. At first I figured it was coming from the glove box, but eventually decided it was front passenger (bumps on the driverside -- no noise -- rattles when the bumps on the pass). The rattle is getting worse and I've noticed a smallish clunk (occassionally) when I start from a stop (or stop).

So where should I start? Is this a "could be anything" job or is there a typical pattern in terms of how these front suspensions go. And, as long as I'm asking, are there jobs that are more or less doable in this realm?

Thanks, guys (and gals, of course).

[loystock]

If suspension components are still original, they are due for service. Also check the engine mounts. The FAQ 'sticky' has a lot of 'How Tos' info as in the link below:

zerothread/214767

[NutriaforBreakfast]

Check CV axles to see if leaking or boots tornShake strut to see if loose or it a lot of oil on itShake front end to see if anything looseMight have broken belt in tire-get tire on lift and see if it is out of round or bulging waiting to explode