by John H 2000 U295 36′
I have noticed over the last few months of a nagging noise coming from the area under rear-wheel drivers side and had just about everything in and around the closets there apart from at one time or another but although it was less noisy on our journey back from Phx a few weeks ago it was still there somewhat. I have been going thru all possibilities in my mind so today I took the outside panel off around that tire and after checking a few things finally found I feel what the cause is/was.
One of the shocks that the previous owner changed (put Koni’s on ) the top bolt was loose and I could turn the top a bit and it produced the noise. Now that it is tight (was 1/4″ loose) no noise.
Due to the location of shock, I could not get at it before with wrench but with the panel off it is simple. I have had all 4 (2 on each side) panels off. Love how easy it makes the job and I was able to pressure wash that wheel well area nice and clean.
I removed the bolt that has been loose for a while and VERIFIED that it has not wallowed out either the shock bushing or the coach attachment. If it is, look at oversizing the bolt/machining the parts. Except for a bit of shiny metal, it looked fine so put it back THEN tightened it.
I have no problem taking those panels off so I can look at everything under them. I was the whole area down before putting a light under/next too while checking. I am very lucky (reading many other postings on different areas) that I have not found anything out of place/ needs fixing other than what I have posted on over the time on Forum.
Taking these panels off is so simple AND as I say gives you an “open canvas” to inspect all that is hard to see with it on. There have been some replies to my former comments on taking these off as “not needed, waste of time, etc”. To me seeing what is covered is peace of mind. I have the 30 mins it takes to remove one, and it goes back as if it was never off!!
Regarding those seams, I spray undercoating on them and anywhere else I feel could benefit from it as a preventative to future problems.