1.) I had the same/similar on my old 99 CSVT....it could be the link or the link bushings....go to

http://www.parts.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=getLocator&siteid=213787&chapter=DP2FM0&appSectionid=24&groupid=20135&subgroupid=60181&componentid=0&make=10&model=Contour&year=1999&graphicID=FMP100&callout=6&catalogid=1

you may have to copy and paste the above link

and look at #14 or #15.

on mine the rubber grommet/bushing was all tore up....based on my initial thoughts...I didn't think that was the problem but after I replaced them both on the rear.....it was fixed.

I could be completely wrong though......I'm kind of an idiot when it comes to this stuff.

As for the others.....not sure w/o searching...I'm sure someone else will suggest a solution for you.

Later

98 T-Red CSVT