Date:         Mon, 18 May 1998 14:21:59 -0300
Reply-To:     Tim Smith <smitht@UNB.CA>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Tim Smith <smitht@UNB.CA>
Subject:      drivetrain noise diagnosis...?
Comments: To: vanagon@vanagon.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

Hi All,

There have been a few posts lately regarding trans/CV/bearing noises, but
they all start off with... "I have a noise...."

Can we try a different approach to this?  Would people who have established
ways of isolating different (vanagon/EV) noises please post their tricks!
This way a vanagon.com noise checklist/diagnosis FAQ could be built.

my $0.02...

1) eliminate tire related probs, wear/out of balance
2) check CVs by slow tight circle listening for clicking, head out open window
3) jack/shake tires for wobbles due to bad wheel bearings, harder up front
4) gently swerve side to side while coasting to load/hear bad wheel bearings
5) determine if noise: speed related or gear related or RPM related or
clutch related (engage/dis. when parked) (input shaft brgs)
6) check under acceleration/deceleration/neutral throttle  (output flange or
pinion brgs., worn R&P gears)
7) on syncros...  main shaft out of balance, front diff... etc.

feel free to add to  or correct this PLEASE!  Would be great help when
buying if the tricks can be used when road testing.

bye, Tim

send replies to me/list as desired. I'll compile and credit those who
contributed, then resend package to list in a week or so.