Rear End Clunk Noise

[thump240z]

heres the deal. I start to hear this noise when I shift gears. (mainly first). Even when Im in reverese I hear this noise.Somthing seems loose or broke. I came to the conclusion that I needed a tranny mount, however i took it to the shop and they lifted me up and told me that its the differential. He turned the right wheel and the left wheel didnt budge. Is this limited slip or is something broke?

I also noticed that my stick shift get warm after driving for about 20mins. any suggestions.

Is their a dianostic test that I can do myself to to figure out whats going on. I was about to go out and purchase a rear end, but I really cant afford that.

[ZmeFly]

More then likely the dreaded clunk is the diff mount and or Ujoints.

Most likely the ladder. Just lift your car by the diff, support it with jack stands and blocks in front of the front tires. Start the car or have someone else do it. Gently ease it into gear.

Take a look and see whats happening.

Unless someone did a conversion on your car it more then likely will have a R180 open differential. One legger.

Good luck

[Ed]

I'd put my money on a mustache bar bushing.

[ZmeFly]

Thats one I forgot about:stupid:

[ROOPZ]

Yea, I hate those rear end noises. I have the same problems with my car. I have come to the conclusion I need a new diff so I guess I will just upgrade while I am at it!! heehee LSD R200!

I have the noise coming from the rear end and it is not the mounts,bushings,or ujoints (Everything is new). I am certain it is coming from the diff itself as when the car is off the ground you can turn the wheel a good distance before the driveshaft begins to move. So if the car bucks or letting off the throttle you can hear the clunk. I also get a "ticking" noise while in reverse.

I too get the ~HOT~ gear shifter after driving for a period of time. I always assumed it is the exhaust heating it up. My lower boot is in ok condition but a new one might help.

Even with all of its problems, I love my Z!

Good luck!

[moyest]

Fellas!

Someone told me the "clunk" is normal. I didn't believe them.

My "clunk" is even more mysterious!

It developed after about 3 months of ownership (but of course it was already 30 years old). The clunk got steadily worse over about 2 months, then became a "bump" behind the seat.

I had the diff mount renewed (and a few bushes) and it was all OK.

The mechanic told me to REALLY tighten up the moustache bar bolts and those big ones that run right through the suspension arms. i.e: get the car on a hoist, and put your full weight into tightening them up.

It worked for a while, but came back again. I took it to a local Z shop and they were miffed by it. They predicted there might be play in the diff!?

The mystery remains unsolved.

P.S: I get the "clunk" when I change into third or fourth or fifth (but not usually second).