1991 Ford Escort creaking on right turns & side to side

1991 FORD ESCORT
29,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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MANDYFULLER
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hi. I clumped my front left wheel on a kerb whilst parking recently. Since then turning right results in a grating, creaking noise, until I am on a straight again. I also get a side to side rocking whilst driving. Wheel nuts are tight, as first felt like wheel wobble. Can you please enlighten me? I thought perhaps ball joint/track rod end/steering rack, but don't know what symptoms are on damage to these. Many Thanks. Mandy
Oct 10, 2008 at 2:17 PM
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ZACKMAN
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 4,202 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Jack the front end. Grab a tire and rock it front and back. If there is play, It is your tie rod end. Then rock the tire, up and down. If there is play, it is your ball joint. Repeat for the other tire.
Oct 11, 2008 at 2:25 AM
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