QuestionHi John, I've been trying to pin down the source of some abnormal noises emanating from beneath my VW T4 Caravelle (1991, 2.0 litre Petrol, Manual) these past 2-3 months. The noises can be best described as moderate to loud metallic clicks and clonks. They haven't got any worse since first noticing them. I managed to pinpoint the noises to somewhere in the middle to mid front section beneath the van.
I've managed to determine occurrence:
1) They only occur on deceleration or downward gear changes.
2) They only occur when decelerating down from 40 to 20 mph and occur most frequently and consistently around 30mph.
3) Depressing the clutch and disengaging the engine whilst moving at the above speeds stops the noises.
4) The noises occur in 5th, 4th and 3rd. I haven't noticed them in 2nd or 1st I think the speed gets too low for them to occur in these gears.
They do not occur when moving over bumps, when accelerating, changing up a gear, cruising or turning corners.
I have checked all wheels and steering for abnormal play. The exhaust is firmly fixed, although I haven't checked the security of the manifold collar. CV boots are ok
I've got a car lift so I have been able to get under the vehicle for a good look around and all seems intact and as it should be.
There's no Cat fitted on this model. The front suspension is the adjustable torsion type (no springs).
Thanks…
Answerthe only problems i have found on these vehicles is the down pipe heat shield welds breaking allowing it to rattle on the exhaust, or the exhaust hanging brackets breaking away from the exhaust. sadly this is the only advice i can really give at this moment. sorry if it doesn't help. john dempsey.
