KZJ78 Metallic clicking / pinging noise

[yotaland]

Hi all,

I’m chasing a random metallic clicking noise from the front right of my 1995 KZJ78 Prado and hoping someone might have ideas.

Noise is a metallic click or ping from the front end. It only happens when the vehicle is moving and seems random rather than rhythmic. I can only hear it with the windows up and not from outside the car. Usually noticeable over small bumps or rough surfaces. Braking does not change the noise and I cannot reproduce it when the vehicle is stationary.

Work done so far:

• Replaced the front sway bar D bushes

The car drives tighter now but the clicking noise is still there. Before replacing the outer bushes there was visible play at one clamp. Everything now feels tight but the noise persists.

Things I have checked:

• Lower shock bush looks OK and I could not move it with a pry bar
• Braking does not affect the noise
• Front control arm bushes flex slightly with a pry bar but it seems like rubber movement rather than sleeve movement

Does this sound like it could be panhard rod bushes or sway bar links? Are there other common sources of a random metallic click on the front axle of these trucks?

Trying not to replace everything in chasing the noise.

Any suggestions appreciated!

Thanks