[V8] Front end clunk when backing up

[getur at optonline.net]

> 
> On May 31, 2006, at 8:00 AM, Thomas Barbera wrote:
 > Fellow v8 fans,
 > I am getting a right front clunk when I back up out of
 > a space and hit the brakes.  Everything is new up
 > front including spring (H&R, just replaced because it
 > broke!), tie rod end, and control arm.  I just checked
 > all of the bolts, everything is tight.  Is it possible
 > my strut cartridge (Bilstein) is bad?  It only happens
 > when I apply the brakes backing up at a certain angle.
 >  Anyone ever encouter this?  Thanks in advance.
 >
 > Tom B.
 > '91 V8Q 5spd
***********

A couple of years ago the wife's A6 made clunking noises when backing up and executing a tight turn. It turned out to be a bad ball joint. The ball joint was actually separating under the stress of the turn and braking.

The other thing I'v gotten anal about is the subframe. I've had the subframe bolts break loose or work their way loose twice now, and initially one of the symptoms is a clunking noise.

George Tur
91 V8