RWD Drive Axle Troubleshoot - clunking noises, vibration and more

General Auto Repair

This is GENERAL information. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or individual vehicle configuration. The purpose of this Trouble Shooting information is to provide a list of common causes to problem symptoms.

Knocking or Clunking

• Differential Side Gear Clearance: Check Clearance
• Worn Pinion Shaft: Replace Pinion Shaft
• Axle Shaft End Play: Check End Play
• Missing Gear Teeth: Check Differential/Replace Gear
• Wrong Axle Backlash: Check Backlash
• Misaligned Driveline: Realign Driveline

Clinking During Engagement

• Side Gear Clearance: Check Clearance
• Ring and Pinion Backlash: Check Backlash
• Worn/Loose Pinion Shaft: Replace Shaft/Bearing
• Bad "U" Joint: Replace "U" Joint
• Sticking Slip Yoke: Lube Slip Yoke
• Broken Rear Axle Mount: Replace Mount
• Loose Drive Shaft Flange: Check Flange

Click/Chatter On Turns

• Differential Side Gear Clearance: Check Clearance
• Wrong Turn On Plates (Limited slip differential only): Replace Clutch Plates
• Wrong Differential Lubricant (Limited slip differential only): Change Lubricant

Knock Or Click

• Flat Spot on Rear Wheel Bearing Replace Wheel Bearing

Low Vibration At All Speeds

• Faulty Wheel Bearing: Replace Wheel Bearing
• Faulty "U" Joint: Replace "U" Joint
• Faulty Drive Shaft: Balance Drive Shaft
• Faulty Companion Flange: Replace Flange
• Faulty Slip Yoke Flange: Replace Flange

General Automotive Repair

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