Well, I just jacked the car up and I can see that the chafing was just an illusion caused by the rain wettened control arm, where it deviates and a bolt is in it.

What I do see is that the plastic shroud over (and intregal to) the shock absorber (don't know what it's called) is broken off at the top, and so slides freely up and down, and sits at the bottom by default. It must be loud as it gets 'whacked' up against the top of the shock mount, but quietly rattles against the bottom on small bumps. That explains the light sound. It's a light piece!

As it doesnt appear to be doing much good right now, would it be better to just cut it off? Then I can see if the whole sound/knock goes away, and check out Fastlane for replacements.

And are there any suggestions for replacements? Is it okay to do just the backs? I don't want anything fancy. I just want a HIGH quality basic damper. Recommendations?

Thanks much!

Mark