Paul Nelson wrote:
>
> My recently acquired 80 Spitfire has clonking coming from the
> differential area. At first I was quick to assume the u joint was
> needing replaced, but now i'm not so sure. The noise clonks faster and
> slower in correlation to my speed. When i accelerate or power is
> applied to the propeller shaft the noise is less, as opposed to
> deceleration or when the clutch is depresssed during shifting when the
> noise becomes more noticable.
>
> I gave a it quick look and Between the propeller shaft and differential
> flange there was no play, so i think the u joint may be ruled out. There
> is however a bit of play(3/8 of an inch approx) when i just turn the
> propeller shaft before the axle turns.
> There was a large amount grease on the differential but the level
> seemed ok.
> Any guidance and advice would be much appreciated.
> Thanks in advance, Paul
> 80 Spitfire
Paul:
Trust me, this is a u-joint problem. Replace BOTH of the half-shaft
(axle) u-joints, and the problem will go away. If it doesn't, replace
the prop shaft joints too. This needs to be done every so often on a
Triumph. The play in your prop shaft is natural wear from your diff,
which, let me guess, bucks and whines a bit too?
--
Martin Secrest
73 GT6
erstwhile 74 Spit
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