DaveLambert

Hi,

I bought a used and well cared for 97 3.5 RL six months ago, it had 96k on the clock and I have driven it about 8k miles.

It had a noise coming from the right front corner when turning left (not your typical cv joint noise), which sounded like something was loose.

My local mechanic put it up on the rack and we found what appears to be the cause - the bushings in the upper contol arm have (maybe) .080" clearance in them - he suggested I replace them.

Here is my question: '...if it was your car what maintenance would you do at 104k'

I am thinking about:

- new struts (can you suggest a make)

- control arm bushings, both sides

- clean and repack cv joints

Are there any other things you would suggest.

P.S. this replaced my 92 Legend five speed, but I find the 97 RL handles like a whale on the back roads... any suggestions on how to make the handling more crisp. Recently, when I was pushing it on some local down hill twisties... almost lost it in the ditch.

P.P.S. recently put on a new set of Potenzas - help a bit.

P.P.S. any suggentions for rear end suspension maintenance?

Dave

Ken1997TL

Dave:

Get suspension components from a 2002 - 2004 RL. Reduced body roll yet still maintaining a smooth ride.