So I guess I have the same problem, but I'm curious as to what, exactly, about preloaded bushings causes the clunking?

I lowered the rear about an inch. I did not r&r the whole subframe, so the bushings should be at their stock deflection angle, so now under slight strain.

Function before fashion. '96 Contour SE "Toss the Contour into a corner, and it's as easy to catch as a softball thrown by a preschooler." -Edmunds, 1998