My 92 245 clunks when the front wheels go over small bumps. It's worst of rough dirt roads; it doesn't happen at highways speeds (or I don't hear it); and there's no noise on severe bumps.

All bushings, tie rod ends, ball joints are fine. Steering rack is tight. Sway bar and stabilizer link bushings are tight.

I believe it's bad struts. Fine. But what is it in the struts that's making the noise? I read through several threads here about it. Multiple cases where folks replaced the struts and still had noise: bad or incorrectly shimmed upper bushings?

So: what's actually making the noise in the struts? The bushings seem tight ie. I can't find anything that's loose. I can't duplicate the noise by pushing down on the front fender.

I don't mind replacing the struts - I just don't want to do it and find out it was something else. How can I tell when struts are bad?

Any recommendations on a spring compressor? I went to Sears but the stores locally don't have them. I assume I can order online.
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85-92 240s/ 245s - parts cars & drivers