I have an 89' Iroc-Z with an L98 and hardtop. The front end makes a popping and grinding noise when I go over bumps and turn the wheel. So I replaced the idler arm and center link and it didnt help, put new end links on and it didnt help.... So one day I pull the tire off and grab the strut at the top and I could wiggle it back and forth like an 1/8 of an inch......So I think I found the problem but do I only need to replace the struts or both the struts and strut mounts on the towers? If I grab it on the botom where it is bolted I cant wiggle it much at all so I think the ball joints are good. The car has 60K miles on it and it is well kept. Apparently the previous owner had the struts replaced because there are Monroe Sensatrac struts and shocks on it now.. Are these good? I am looking for a stock ride quality so should I go for another set of Monroes or Gabriels?? How are the Gabriels...do they compare to monroes in quality and performance? I cant afford paying over $150 a strut......whats a good strut that will give stock ride quality and last a while????

 

You need to replace the bearing plates.