Hi, my cousin just got an 87 WS6 trans am. We took it down the road today and whenever you go over a bump it makes a clank/cracking noise under the front. The guy he got it from said that it would need new struts, but my cousin already put those on. He also said that the previous owner "clamped the springs" to lower it.
Whenever you lift up or push down on the front end on either side it makes the same noise. Does anyone know what could be the cause of it? Your help is appreciated.
Thanks,
Brad

 

Anybody???

 

First guess would be balljoints. Most often go out and are ignored more than any other component. Also makes the most noise.

Lift up the front end so wheels are clear, get a pry bar under the wheel, and lift. If there is any movement of the tire relative to the car, balljoints are shot.

You can also check the zerk fitting on the lower bj. It also acts as wear indicator. If the shoulder of the fitting is flush with the spindle, replace balljoints.

Hope this helps. Local wheel and tire shop should be able to replace them for about $50 per side (including parts!)