Loud clunking from the rear... Axle tramp?

[drevilkep]

I was sure it was the diff bushing, but that didn't totally solve the problem. Here's the deal: when I'm taking off from a start (I do this a lot in DC traffic), sometimes I'll get a shaking in the rear that will build up until things start clunking around. I thought it was the diff bushing allowing the diff to move, but replacing that only partially solved the problem. I'm also getting a clunk whenever I lift or apply the throttle, most noticeable in the 30-50mph range. Also, there is a distinct side to side shaking feeling I get between 20-30mph when crawling along in traffic. Is this a center support bearing? Seized u-joints? Or something else?

[gearheadE30]

Start with the center support bearing. It may be the CV or u-joints, but those also tend to rattle when they go bad, and don't have much effect under steady-state acceleration.

[Danny]

Check your exhaust hangers.

[charlesmarseille]

if you fixed it a bit with a new bushing, try retorquing the upper bolts that hold the diff on the chassis. they usually get loose and allow the axle to pivot around the hubs center of rotation, do to the centrifugal force. and give some update.

[kev.skyline]

rear subframe bushigs deffinatly

[KenC]

Rear SF bushings.

[EN318isPDX]

CSB or CAB

[Defunkt25]

I had the same problem. Its most likely the exhaust. My exhaust tip had actually cracked.

[KenC]

could def be csb and/or bad ujoints

[Brew]

Could also be a bad CV joint. Check for play between the hubs and axle shafts.

[wolfgangstbd]

mine does this too. im pretty sure its the csb ill fix it when i get some money. Do yours and tell me if it helped! haha

[twright]

Before you take anything apart, make sure that the u-joint nuts are tight and the differential-to-subframe bolts are tight.

If any of these are loose, you will get clunking noises.

Don't ask me how I know.

[wolfgangstbd]

how do you know ahah

[Doughnut]

I have same problem in my 323i, it's the subframe bushes slopping around.

Good place to check on top of everything else anyway.