A frame binding

[sf4018]

I noticed a creaking metallic noise the last time out, I’ve isolated to the front A-frame 

 

it feels bound up. Is the joint broken or does it just need some TLC like grease?

[Croc]

That diagram looks like rear A frame but your text refers to front A frame?   I assume you mean rear?  

 

I would pull it apart and grease it.  Its supposed to flex under load.

 

One thing to keep in mind is that it should be treated as consumables in heavily tracked cars - refer link

 

 

 

[sf4018]

Sorry it was a poorly worded - it’s the front of the rear A-frame. Based on that pic in the link I may just get a new one. Thanks for the info.

[ashyers]

Check to see that the washers used to center the A-frame in the chassis are not rubbing on the OD of the A-frame that retains the bushings. If set up incorrectly they will make quite the racket!

[sf4018]

I have the replacement A Frame, the old one was bent fairly equally on both sides - see pic, not sure of the physics of how that happened but definitely needed replacing.

[Croc]

 

That is fairly bent - nicely caught before failure.  The end outcome - the noise was the joints binding from the bent A frame.  

[Pokey]

That is a little disturbing, it looks like it bent at the weld.