81 can't get in gear

[kmckenzi]

I have a stock 81, auto transmission and something bad happened. I noticed a thumping noise on the driver's rear while in reverse. Ocasionally it would grind. I put the car on jacks, and popped off the wheel. I started the car and put it in reverse. Passenger side looked/sounded good, but the drivers side made a ticking noise, and eventually grinded, then stopped. Passenger side spun fine.

Put the car in park, then shut it off. Played around with the Emergency brake (putting on and off) thinking maybe the shoes in the drum were grabbing. Well, when I start the car, it won't go into gear.

Any ideas?

Thanks

Ken

 

[JohnZ]

Do you mean the shift lever won't move into Drive, or it moves to Drive but the rear wheels don't turn, or??? If the driver's side stopped and the other side kept turning, something seized on the driver's side, and the Posi clutches are slipping to turn the other side, which will fry the clutch packs if you keep it up. The driver's side wheel bearing may have seized.

 

[kmckenzi]

Thanks for the quick reply.

The shift lever doesn't move at all. I'll check the bearings on that side but what we keep the shift lever from moving?

 

[kmckenzi]

Shifter moves...did'nt push the button down far enough. Looks like the bearing did seize. Time for more fun.

 

[GTR1999]

If I read correctly, you put the car in drive while the rear suspension was on jack stands? If so you might have the 1/2 shaft hung up. You have to be sure the rear suspension is at ride height while doing this type of check. If you already know that and covered it,disregard.
If the bearing is the problem and bad enough to lock up the wheel you're going to have to look closely at the spindle when you get it apart.