Front end creaking noise.

[ncdirt]

This just started today. There is a lot of creaking in the front end when backing up and moving forward at a slow speed. I do not here it once speed is increased a little. Its really bad when turning the steering wheel left and right when the cart is not moving. I replaced the steering box about a month ago and not sure where to start to correct the problem. Cart is a 04 TXT. Thanks.

[Gonkulor]

Obviously you have crawled around on your back and don't see anything? Creeking sound is from metal on metal dysfunction or lack of lube. If you jump up and down on the cart is the movement smooth? You could have a myriad of issues but seeing your cart isn't even 10 years old I wouldn't think your steering joints are bad, unless a team of clowns had there way with your cart.

I would start by adding some lube either threw zerk fittings if you have them or spraying some style of lube on the steering components. After that I would definitely check everything's security, tightness. I'm wondering if your front leaf spring mounts have some play. You will know that by jumping up and down on the cart while it is at rest. You did say your sound was coming from the front correct?

It could just simply be your shocks are bad. You could remove them and see if the sound stops.

Let us know what you find.

[ncdirt]

Thanks Gonkulor. Just got done through the front end bolt by bolt. Checked for tightness then lubed. Creaking was coming from the tie rod ends. Mine do not have grease zerks so I lubed them with some lithium grease and the noise went away. Will probably replace them this week as there is a little bit of play in them.