Seems like it happens mostly when applying the brake and going over small bumps. Clanks around. it sounds like a ball joint clanking around but wanted to get opinions. Jacked the front and removed the wheel. Could not find any play by hand. Truck drives straight and smooth other than the noise

 

Did you check the brake pads? I had a condition on my 86 where the squeal springs popped out, and allowed the pads to rattle around. In turn, it elongated the holes in the pads and they rattled whenever i went over any bumps or hit the brakes.

 

That's a good thought. It seems somewhat related to braking but hard as hell to pinpoint. It sounds like a deeper clank sound like a ball joint, but I will check that good idea

 

maybe someone half-assed a brake job befor i bought it...

 

i didn't tighten my sway bar bushing, every time i drove it made a god awful sound. check that.

 

the bushings on that side swaybar are all cracked and worn..

could that be it?

 

I lifted my truck and loosened them, I think it was like a 17mm/19mm. and an allen wrench. Well I forgot to use the allen, and man my truck sounded like it was going to fall apart. it had slop in it and thats might be causing yours. maybe if you disconnect it or have some watch as you drive slow or back up over a bump and watch. thats how I found mine. I swore up and down it was a ball joint. tightened it up and no problems. as you answer... MAYBE?

 

my thought now is it may be a worn/loose bushing causing a nut to hit a bushing retainer washer?

anyone ever had that happen?