Front-end noise makes my 560sl sound like a jalopy and not a Mercedes

[sms]

Noise sounds like loose floorboard creaking and is only heard at low speed when car is put in drive and then brake is applied. Alternately putting in drive and then applying brake can repeat noise. No noise his heard when car is put in reverse. Noise is most prominent on driver’s side and can be felt somewhat thru steering wheel. Some noise is produced while turning wheel back and forth, but primary noise is heard when car is put in drive and then stopped abruptly. No noise is heard while cruising.

In trying to correct this problem, the following have been repaired/replaced by either my mechanic or me.

Right & Left Upper and Lower Control Arm bushings
LF Upper Ball Joint
Steering Coupling
Tie Rod Ends
Steering Damper
Front Shocks


What else could be suspect?

Mechanic has told me that all ball joints are sound and while replacing items listed above may be worthwhile they have not eliminated or even reduced the noise.

Only ideas I have left are:

Motor mounts
Engine Shocks
Idle arm bushings
Steering Gear Mounting Bolts

Don’t want to replace anything else unless it will eliminate this annoying problem!

[Ferdman]

SMS, what is the condition of the front sway bar bushings?

[sms]

Front way bar bushings are new.

[Two560Two]

You should replace all bushings/ shocks if you want your SL to ride like new. It will cost some $$ but it is well worth it. Notable the Subframe bushings will cause that noise. Just check all bushings and replace even if they are still notable "good"

[dpkreuze]

Got a sound file to post?

[sms]

Subframe bushings have also been replaced. Will work on getting a sound file!