growling noise

[Steve C]

I've been noticing a growling noise from the rear at hard acceleration from a standing start. Apon inspection I found all U joints, drive shafts, and differential tight. With both rear wheels off the ground I could turn the drivers side wheel back and forth 2-3" before the outer yoke, u joint and half shaft moves. The passenger side wheel has no play at all. Both wheels have no in and out play. Is this symtoms of a worn yoke and or spindle? Can I remove the yoke to see without removing the spindle? Can I replace the yoke without bearing problems? Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Blue82]

Welcome to CAC Steve. If you can move the tire that far without the half shaft moving, you have serious bearing/spindle problems. You may have problems at the differential end but you won't know until you remove the half shaft and inspect it.

You can remove the trailing arm and look it over, but you will need special tools to replace the bearings.

I would take it to a shop and have the bearings replaced on both wheels and for heavens sake DON'T drive it. I couldn't imagine how much the repair coet would be after you siezed or worse...tore off a wheel assembly.

Good luck

 

[Steve C]

Thanks for the advise Blue82. There's been many viewing this post, but only one reply. More opinions would be really helpful.

 

[JohnZ]

I posted a response on 10-27, but it apparently fell into the "black hole" :eyerole . If you can rotate the wheel 2"-3" with no movement at the inboard spindle flange or outer half-shaft U-joint, your spindle bearings are REALLY shot, as everything from the wheel to the U-joint is one solid assembly (with the spindle nut tight). I wouldn't even drive the car - if the spindle seizes and separates, you'll lose a rear wheel and tear up the quarter panel, not to mention losing control of the car. You're looking at a major repair job, possibly including the spindles themselves.
:eek

 

[Steve C]

Thanks for help guys. I was hoping for an easy way out or at least a less expensive one. I'll take it apart and fix what I can.

I'll post updates if anyone is interested. Thanks again.