I will quickly admit my weak point in car knowledge lies in comprehension of suspension components. Could anyone please explain to me what the exact role of your track bars and sway bar is?

Also if you got a sec, my front ball joints are failing fast, is it safe to drive on them other then the fact i will get some horrendous tire wear?

Any ideas on what would cause a large flexing/cracking sound in the front end when turning the wheel at low speeds? (Could it be the same ball joint problem?)

 

The track bar AKA Panhard bar centers the rear end under the car. If you take a measurement from the rims to the lip of the fender and find that it is shifted to one side or teh other an adjustable panhard bar will correct it. It is especially necessary as the springs wear and the rear sags, changing the geometry or if you install lowering springs. The sway bar transfers the cornering forces to the opposite side of the car, helping to keep the tires planted to the road and a more level ride. Don't continue driving with bad ball joints. The front end geometry will be shifting all over the place. It is not safe and is wearing the tires quicker. Check all the front end components while you are at it. Idler AKA drak link (the highest wear item on our 3rd gen F-bodies), center link, tie rod ends, lower control arm bushings, shocks, struts. Get it checked out and replace what is worn and have peace of mind. A lot of it can be done by yourself. Many auto parts stores will rent you the tools needed for only a deposit. Good luck, Lon.

 

Also to add what Lon said, check the frame rail around the steering box. These are known to crack and the problem really shows up at low speed turning. If this is cracked, you will need to take it to a shop to have it welded and maybe reinforced based on how bad it's cracked. This is why GM put in the "wonder bar" in IROC's. Too help eliminate this problem. Only a few years had this. No idea why GM didn't do it to all 3rd gens. Global West makes one. You can also order one from GM. If you don't have any cracks you may want to get one just to pervent problems down the road.

If your ball joints are bad, don't drive on them. If it breaks while you are driving, you are going to do a LOT of damage. Check everything out very well. L8R

------------------
Mike Schwartz aka chevymike
'92 Z28, 5.7, Teal Hardtop

"Don't Outlaw High Performance Cars,
Outlaw Low Performance Drivers!"
Mike's Camaro Z28

 

thanks for the advice guys. Would my 92 Z-28 have that wonderbar? What exactly is it called becuase the frame rail is pretty badly cracked. Would it be safe to drive it to the shop, i just do not have time to do anything to my car during school. I got the front tires of the ground and their is about 6 mm of play in both the balljoints, looks pretty nasty. And i think that knock is becuase of that cracked frame rail. Ok thanks for the info guys.