front end clunking noise

[usc45]

i'm hearing this clunking noise from the driver's side front end everytime i make a left turn only when the suspension is under load. it's kinda hard to explain, but it sounds like a bad balljoint or something along those lines. i've been under the truck shaking various suspension parts from the end links to the whole control arm. i've also jacked up the truck to get the load off the suspension while doing this. i checked for bad balljoints as well as bad tie rod ends, but all is tight. the noise also happens if i hit a fairly large dip or pothole in the road while going straight. this has been happening since i bought the truck 2 months ago even with the oem wheels. at first i thought it was the hood, so i didn't really make a fuss about it, but adjusting the rubber hood stops didn't do a thing. any ideas what this could be? or should i bring it into the dealer and have them take a look? if i'm not explaining this clearly, please let me know as well. thanks.

[NISTECH]

sounds like a strut problem. like it is bottoming out

[usc45]

i thought the same but it happens at full and partail load.

[mikeis3102]

I have a similar problem on my 1996 Pathfinder. I just found out what it was.

I found it to be the rack and pinion. You can check noise by doing this test: The clunking noise happens when steering right & left while parked with the motor off. Just sit in the car, move steering wheel and listen for noise. Noise should come from driver's side under truck. Hint: Have a helper steer while your under the truck listening.

The noise may occur at the steering box, mine did. Here's what's creating the noise. The rack is hitting something inside its case. You can pull the bellow boots back (I did) and visibly see the rack move up/down, hit, and make clunck noise, while a helper steers right/left.

If you find this to be your problem PLEASE let me know what you did to fix it because I have yet to fix mine.

-Mike