rear end clunk noise
 

So I hear a clunk noise when I hit the gas petal. It is not a constant sound, just a clunk when I hit the gas. I replaced the differential bushings this weekend but the sound continues. I took this vid to see if this is normal, the video was taken from the rear driver side.

https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B-3i...p=docslist_api

Maybe it's supposed to sound like this when not running but the sound inside is pretty loud while driving.

Does not sound normal


-Raj

Hopefully that's just a rear bearing needing adjustment/grease (search is your friend).

I have searched plenty of threads the past few days.

Regarding greasing the axle, do I greats the flat metal that bits up against the differential and the axle where it goes into the wheel hub?

First thread I found. There are others.
http://www.the370z.com/engine-drivet...unk-noise.html

Definitely sounds like just need to grease the rear axles. When driving, you say it feels connected to the gas pedal. Is it more like its related to the slack in the drivetrain? When you give it gas, the drivetrain is going to slide back causing the click, but it also happens when you just let off the gas sometimes because the engine brake will cause the drivetrain to slide forward causing another click. This is what I experienced.

If so, the thread SouthArk linked is the one you want. It has all the info you need. I would start with some moly lube on the joints near the wheel hub. See the FSM diagram. If that doesn't work or you notice the adjusting cap is loose, you might consider replacing it per the instructions in the link. Be sure to read the entire thread for details on the amount and type of washers to use with a castellated nut.

I have seen all the links about greasing the axle. I kinda wrote that off since the nut is tight on the wheel hub and the noise is coming from the differential area. I'll still grease that joker up today or tomorrow.

It's possible that the axle/bearing is not the problem but that seems to be the most common cause of "rear end clunk" on the 370Z. Seems to be a pretty easy job if you have some mechanical aptitude/experience and the right tools. I'd try that before tearing into the differential.

Sound travels well in metal parts, making it difficult to pinpoint the source at times. A mechanic's stethoscope will help.

Is there any grease needed where the axle bolts to the differential?

Grease goes inside the boot at either end of the driveshaft. But the likely source of the clicking is the surface near the wheel hub where the moly lube goes. It is referred to as the #2 grease and just says "Apply paste" in this diagram.

I replaced the bushing and mine was in fact bad. But what was causing the clunk noise was actually the axle nuts on the driver side wheel being loose. I appreciate everyone's help.