QuestionQUESTION: In the last month, my Spitfire has a slight grinding noise and vibration that I can hear and feel, while driving the car. I jacked the car up and while in Neutral, spun the right rear wheel. I can hear and feel a grinding sound that seems to be tied directly to the drive trail - with the sound coming from the transmission area.
My question is - what could this be and how difficult is it to fix? I'm also questioning if it could be fluid/oil related. I do have some fluid leaks, but engine oil level is fine. I don't see where the tranny fluid is checked/added, or the rear differential.I am pretty comfortable working on cars - but the Spit is a recent addition to my fleet.
ANSWER: Hi Mark,
If you have noise coming from the transmission you can gain access to the trany by removing the tunnel carpet and the tunnel itself inside the car. Other than adding oil or checking the nut on the end of the mainshaft (output shaft), there is nothing you can do outside of a gearbox (transmission). Running the drive train and using a stethoscope is the best way to listen for internal noises in a gearbox. Check the "U" joints first as they can make a noise that sounds like it is coming from the gearbox or differential. Get a service manual from either Haynes or Bentley before opening the gearbox. The oil filler/level plug is in the side of the gearbox.
Howard
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Hello Howard. Thanks for the quick reply!
I've done a little more investigating. The sound seems to be coming from where the drive shaft connects to the differential. I suppose it could be a U-Joint, because there is certainly one located in the area. The differential also has some oily 'wetness' on it. Any other ideas to pinpoint the issue.
AnswerYou can just remove the four bolts holding the "U" joint flange to the differential flange and check the "U" joint for any stiffness or free play in it's movement. You should get a manual before removing the axle if the "U" joint needs replacing.
Howard
