I have a 2001 windstar. It sounds like there is something loose in the front end, it makes a noise every time I hit a bump with either wheel. It sounds like it is something at each wheel. I have replaced both links to the stabilizer bar, and the hardware for the brakes, and still has not fixed the problem. I notice nothing in the steering wheel, just hear this noise!!! Any ideas!!!!????

 

Could be worn carraige bushings or worn sway bar bushings. Does it do it when you apply light pressure to the brakes when going over the bumps that cause the noise? If not, then it's the brake pads floating loosely in the calipers. Are all of the stainless steel caliper slides in place for the brake pads?

 

It does not make the noise whenI apply light pressure to the brakes. So there is suppose to be stainless steel clips on the pads to hold them on the sliders? If I recall correctly when I put the new pads on there were no clips just the metal tabs that ride on the sliders.

 

There should be 4 stainless steel spring clips oneach caliper mounting bracket that the ears of the brake pads set on. These are designed to keep the brake pads from rattling aroundby applying light pressure to the brake pads, yetstill let the padsslide without binding. Ensure that all 4 are in-place. You may need new ones.

 

Well, all clips are in place, butmaybe they just need replaced. I cannot figure out what else it may be. The noise definitely stops when I apply light pressure to the brakes. I guess I will try new clips and see if that takes care of it. Any other ideas you might have would be appreciated.
thanks

 

The only other thing I can think of, and Ihave seen (did a 2000 Winstar),is that the little ears on the brake pads are a hair shorter then the ones you replaced causing then to bounce around. The pads should set almost snug in the slides.