thanx for the ideas. since i bought this in Dec 03 i have been religiously lubing the front end twice a year (or more) so i have spent a good amount of time under there and think i know where all the parts should be and how they interconnect. stan, good idea on the thumping. have been trying to replicate the noise, even by visiting the same dip in the road (it's on the way to Lowe's ) but have not heard it again.

if i reach no conclusions or make no discoveries, i spose this thread will reach a natural, peaceful demise.