Front suspension noise

Hi, ever since I bought my 1983 400i a couple of years ago I have thought the front suspension is pretty noisy. It is most noticeable going over speed humps as a king of muffled clonk or bang.

I have replaced the lower shock absorber bushes (which were down to the metal on one side) and also replaced the sway bar bushes but this has made no difference. Prior to me buying the car it was restored at huge expense. I have looked at the car with my mechanic when it was on the hoist and there are no visible faults. The car otherwise rides, steers, and handles really well. It is just the noise that bothers me.

I read contemporary road tests which criticise the 400/412 for having harsh and noisy front suspension so I am wondering if I am being too picky or looking for fault that isn't there?

Your advice/opinions would be appreciated (mine is the only 400/412 I have driven).

 

As the OP I thought I would resurrect this thread because I finally found a knowledgeable 400 mechanic who has fixed the front suspension noise. The problems were that the steering box had too much free play and the idler arms and tie rod ends were loose and missing their split pins!

I collected the car from the mechanic this afternoon. All has now been put right and of course the car is now much better to drive.