Hmm... just a hunch but while you're under there look at the bottom of the strut tube where the ball joint bolts up into the tube. Look for any signs of a light oil leaking all over the balljoint... if it is there, most likely your shock insert (damper, shock, whatever you want to call it) is completely worn out and leaking. If not, the ball joint isn't a bad bet.

Could be control arm bushings, tie rod ends, sway bar links and/or sway bar bushings, ball joints, or just loose bolts/nuts. When my control arm bushings went out it would make a popping noise when I would hit speed bumps, come to a complete stop, or when I would give the car gas from a complete stop. Stick you head under there (with the car on jack stands) and have a look around. Check for cracks in the bushings or play in the rods. Look at the ball joints rubber boot to see if it is torn thus letting dirt in. FCP Groton has a front suspension kit for sale for about $60 bucks if I'm not mistaken. Not much money to do the entire front suspension on your own if you feel up to it but if you go somewhere else at least see if you can bring your own parts so you can save some money. If you let them sell you the parts and do the labor get ready to bend over and take it in the WALLET!!! Good Luck!!!

Sincerely,
--
Julio Meza

1979 264GL B27F 124K --> BW55->M46, CLS, IPD Sway, 81+ Dash, Gauges

1979 262C B27F 159K --> Restore Project w/Possible B21FT

1984 245DL 212K -->Wifemobile