Front near side clunk

[Sage103]

My 406 has had a persistent clunk at the front for months now. I’ve replaced the drop links and ARB bushes and there is no play in the lower balljoint and the track rod end but still the clunk is there. The car actually passed its last MOT with the clunk - I was hoping the test would throw up a fault (and diagnosis). It’s a low speed issue and is more apparent when turning and reversing.

So I’m thinking that it must be the strut top bearing. Before I bite the bullet and tackle that it would be good to have other opinions. Has anyone had a similar experience?

[Doggy]

If you jack/prop it up so both front wheels are off the ground then turn the wheels from lock to lock, (or get someone else to while you listen), you should be able to hear where any noises come from.

My strut top bearings made an obvious graunching noise when I tried this

[Sage103]

Good call, Doggy. Thanks.

I know that on some cars you can change the bearing without removing the strut - by releasing the top bolts and compressing the spring. Is this possible on the 406?

[Doggy]

I don't think so. I know I removed the struts to do mine.

[Sage103]

The clunk turned out to be the spring turning raggedly against the strut top. After cleaning and applying grease it no longer clunks.