DrJohn301951

I have an '88 that I bought with 92,000 miles two years ago. About two months ago I heard a "clunking" sound in the rear end when I started out in first gear and when I started out in reverse. I had the rear U-joints replaced (all four) and it went away for a short time but returned. I had the two U-joints replaced on the drive shaft thinking that that was the trouble, but the "clunking" persisted. My mechanic said that perhaps we got bad rear axle joints, so I had all four replaced again. The problem is somewhat better (meaning it doesn't clunk all the time) but it still persists. Does anyone have any ideas? I would really appreciate it. Thanks in advance.

Dr. John

vader86

This is when the car is being put into gear, or when its moving?

onedef92

Do you have a leaking rear diff housing? When's the last time the fluid was changed back there?

DrJohn301951

Thanks guys,

It is just when I start out either in first or in reverse. It doesn't happen all the time and after it "clunks" once, it's done. I haven't replaced the rear diff fluid so far as I know. It is not leaking though or my mechanic would have probably found it.

Thanks again, so much.

Dr. J

CentralCoaster

I've had this noise, also accompanies by a metallic clicking noise starting out in gear.

The entire drivetrain is basically new. Ring/pinion rebuild, ujoints, clutch, bearings, etc.

Someone suggested the thin washers between the rear bearings and spindles are slipping and allowing the spindle to take up slop in the bearing. The replacements have a coating that is worn off of my originals. I'm going to replace those next.

SilverBeast

Hey Doc. Check to make sure your calipers are tight and that the floating part has the pins installed properly and your pads are ok. It could be one of your brake parts settling after you start moving.

DrJohn301951

Thanks a million. I'll pass this information on to my mechanic.

Dr. John