Help! Need Guidance

[Dragon Daddy]

Hi. I have a 1997 C5 with 80,000 miles.

Recently, I have begun to experience a binding ‘feeling’ when I make short-radius, right- or left-hand turns at low speeds (like driving around in a parking lot). I use the word ‘feeling’ to describe the experience, because it is not really a noise, it just seems like there is some resistance as I turn. I do not experience this problem at speed.

I have read that the front wheel bearings sometimes need replacing in older vehicles; however, I have not yet checked them for excessive play. I was also wondering if it could be a differential problem.

Has anyone else experienced this condition?

If so, what did you do to fix it?

Thanks.

 

[leftyvette]

I'm anxious to see what others say about this issue. I think I know what you are talking about. Mine feels strange every once in a while at slow speeds. I have always felt it was due to the width of the front tires. This is the first car that I have had with such wide front tires.

 

[Hib Halverson]

Typically that binding feeling in tight radius, slow speed turns can be the differential, however, diff problems like that are usually acompanied by noise, either a squeal that you hear and a chatter that you feel and may hear.

I'd check for a problematic diff. but I'd also be looking for other problems, such as the wheel bearings you list above.

As for what to do to fix the problem if it is the differential? Sometimes just changing the lubricant solves the problem. If you've got 80,000 miles on a C5 and you've never changed the rear axle lube, I'd try that right away. If there's no change, then you're looking at rebuilding the axle.

Good luck.

 

[zagger]

This might sound silly but have you checked the steering fluid level and the rack system for signs of moisture, leaking seals. You could have a slight leek in the rack and that would not necessarily make any noise and not be felt at speed.

 

[cntrhub]

Typically that binding feeling in tight radius, slow speed turns can be the differential...

You have a posi-rear. But a breakable posi. Meaning, there are clutches in the diff. When you make a decreasing radius turn, the clutches chatter or 'bind' is like it feels like it loads up and then lets go? Feels like that? Normal then, if no other noise is just a tight turn is the diff breaking loose is not breaking parts is the posi clutch pack binding/unbinding.

 

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,
Before you do anything else, if your fluid is to the correct level, CHANGE IT!
88862624 Dexron LS has proven excellent in c5 rears for keep them quiet and reliable.
Allthebest, c4c5

 

[Dragon Daddy]

HI there,
Before you do anything else, if your fluid is to the correct level, CHANGE IT!
88862624 Dexron LS has proven excellent in c5 rears for keep them quiet and reliable.
Allthebest, c4c5

c4c5 et al,

Thanks for all the quick replies.

I have changed the diff oil twice (at 40K and 65K). Each time I have used the OEM 89021677 oil plus the 1052358 additive (4oz). I will buy some 88862624 Dexron LS and give it a try. (I will also check the level.)

Thanks again. This is quite a network!

 

[Dragon Daddy]

HI there,
Before you do anything else, if your fluid is to the correct level, CHANGE IT!
88862624 Dexron LS has proven excellent in c5 rears for keep them quiet and reliable.
Allthebest, c4c5

c4c5

Great Guidance!!

Installed the new fuild, and now we dirve as smooth as silk.

Thank you very much! (again)