Mazda Repair: Mazda 626 LX 2001, exhaust hangers, torsion bar


Question
Noise in rear end- Over the past two months a noise has developed in the rear end. It sounds like a golf ball rattling around. The sound is more prevalent at low speeds, 15-20, on bumpy roads. The noise is greatly reduced with passengers in the back seat. I have removed all from the trunk, removed the back seat, etc. I've had the struts checked, checked the exhaust hangers, shields. A mechanic yesterday wedged a wood block on the torsion bar and took it for a ride. The noise stopped. In your opinion is this a likely source?  

Answer
Hi and thanks for writing,
That would be a very likely source for such a noise. The torsion bar can move around and rattle very easily causing such a noise if the shank rings holding it in place become worn and wedging a block of wood between it would stop it rattling.
hope this helps.
don't hesitate to write back if you have any more questions and/or comments.
Stay Safe
James