Banging over bumps and when sharply engaging 1st or 2nd

[MarkA67]

For my MOT, I had an advisory for slight play in the nearside lower arm ball joint and some slight play in the offside anti roll bar linkage. The van was constantly banging when going over bumps which I know is usually a sign of a worn out drop link. He couldn't fault it as although it was banging, he still only found slight play.

I have replaced both the lower arm and the offside drop link but sadly the banging is still there! It doesn't always do it, but if I go over a speed bump, sometimes it will bang from the left and sometimes from the right. If I go over a manhole cover with just one wheel, sometimes it won't bang, sometimes it will.

If I was to engage 1st or 2nd gear sharply (by sharply I mean coming up to the biting point quickly) I get a loud bang from the nearside. If I bring the clutch up slowly and rev it a bit higher this doesn't happen.

It didn't get any advisories on any bushes (I.E. Anti roll bar) I've checked the lower engine mount and that's solid. I've checked all the bolts and they are all tight, the ball joint in the new arm looks to be as deep as it will go.

Anyone have any ideas on what else I should check? 2000 2.0 Litre HDi 800LBS

Thanks

[brodfather11]

I would have changed both anti roll bar links, it does not take a lot of wear for them to bang. They are cheap enough.
The gearbox mounting under the battery can wear and give that banging if the clutch is released too quickly.

Some have found the top mounting/bearing for the steering strut wears and starts banging like that. (The big rubber mounting on the inner wing under the bonnet)

[MarkA67]

Thanks for the reply mate, I'll whip the battery box off and take a look at the mount. In regards to the top mounts, is there a way to test them aside from bouncing the corners and listening for any bangs?

[polar]

I would have changed both anti roll bar links, it does not take a lot of wear for them to bang.  They are cheap enough.
The gearbox mounting under the battery can wear and give that banging if the clutch is released too quickly.

Some have found the top mounting/bearing for the steering strut wears and starts banging like that. (The big rubber mounting on the inner wing under the bonnet)

What Brodfarther11 says ^^^^^


What is your mileage?

It could be lots of things but start as above says - also check anti roll bar bushes they dont need a lot of wear to bang a bit. Check the driveshaft coupling to the gearbox for excessive radial play. Have a push on the front wings to check the front suspension legs for a knocking damper.

[bikey]

Just a thought, while checking underneath, have a look at the lower engine mount for play. Use a suitable lever to see if there is excessive movement.

I've been having similar symptoms and it turned out the bush is shot.

Just waiting for a Powerflex bush to arrive and planning to fit it next week.

These are two piece bushes and so hopefully I'll be able to do the job without removing the driveshaft and carrier.

[geoff]

There have been a few enquiries regarding Powerflex Bushes for the Berlingo but no feedback yet I believe from anyone so your upcoming experiences will be keenly awaited, please can you provide an update for us all we will be waiting with baited breath !

[bikey]

There have been a few enquiries regarding Powerflex Bushes for the Berlingo but no feedback yet I believe from anyone so your upcoming experiences will be keenly awaited, please can you provide an update for us all we will be waiting with baited breath !

Sure Geoff, I'm still waiting for delivery but weather permitting I plan to do the job next week.