I drive with the tires over inflated but this winter the suspension on the right front seemed unusually stiff (KYB struts). Hitting a bump with the right wheel would shake the entire car - and there were plenty of bumps with the snow packed streets. But since it was very cold, I ignored it.

The front suspension has always made some noise but as the days warmed it got louder. Finally, today, as I arrived home before lunch, I got out and bounced the car on that side. BTW, bouncing an Evo is like going to the Gym. Each up and down movement was accompanied by a moan- groan sound.

After eating I went out and bounced the car again. All quiet. So, I drove about a mile and returned - so had the sound. With an engine stethoscope I started searching for the source of the sound. It seemed to be loudest right at the threaded portion under the cap on the top hat.

I sprayed silicon on the strut shaft thinking the seal might be making the noise but no joy there. Is the strut bad? Anyone had a problem like this?

 

I just got off the phone with KYB. The technician was puzzled too. The only thing he could suggest was that the speed sensitive valve in the strut is broken and stuck shut. I am about to go to the shop and pull the strut to examine the top mount. However, I don't expect to find anything wrong there.