I don't know what these noises are. I hear clicking and tapping noises coming from underneath the Camaro. They aren't noticeable until my windows are down on bumpy roads. Along with that, when going over these bumps the suspension just doesn't feel normal. Not bouncy, just harsh vibrations. I have already replaced my tires, shocks and struts. I have looked extensively under the car and checked the dozens of bushings in the suspension, missing bolts, loose bolts and everything looks good. The bushings look a little dry rotted though, but is that enough to cause a problem? I hate to say this, if fact, it's a little embarrassing... I have been so frustrated with the problem I took it to Pep Boys. I know, bad choice. I hate that place! They ended up replacing the lower control arm bushings. That only helped a little. It still feels abnormal. Or is this just because of the stiff suspension? What else should I check for?

 

The bushing are 20+ years old. Logic says that if you replace them, the ride quality/sound should improve. If budget allows, consider SFC's and a steering box brace.

JamesC

 

Kind of expected to hear that. As far as replacing ALL the bushings, is that going to be difficult to replace on my own? On a scale of 1-10 for automotive mechnical experience: 1 just plain dumb, 10 seen it all...I fall about a 4. My better half is about an 8.
I suppose taking it to a corner repair shop would cost an arm and a leg huh?

 

If you have upgrade plans for the car, most after market suspension pieces have greaseably poly bushings of some sort already installed as part of the package and the install can be done with simple handtools. I'd think you and your better half could do the panhard, LCA's, tranny mount, end links and sway bar busings easily enough. The a-arm bushings and motor mounts would be more challenging. Check Spohn's web site for examples of suspension pieces. In the long run, buying new, stronger equipment "might" not only be more cost efficient but a better choice.

Just to provide some ideas, here's what I've done: Energy Suspension motor, tranny, secondary crossmember, torque arm, bump stops, and tie-rod boots, Prothane A-arm bushings, GM poly end links, and Top-Down Solutions greaseable front and Energy Suspension greaseable rear bushings, Spohn lower control arms and panhard with greaseable bushings.

JamesC