When my right rear ball jojnt failed the wheel let go and ripped out the axle out of the trans while driving, i embarked on the rebuild process to the damaged parts. i replaced the knuckle, ball joint, bent tierod, axle seal. reused the old wheel hub/bearing and axle. after putting it back together, i heard a clunking sound from the rear when turning, especially at low speeds.

the old symptoms when my ball joint was loose and failing is the tail end would swerve with application of power in a straight line. i no longer have that problem, just a clunking noise while turning.

while taking everything back apart i checked all the torques in the area, everything was good. even the control arms and brake caliper mounts.

i bought a new axle and hub/bearing assembly. im hoping this fixes the issue.

before i rebuild, i noticed the outboard bearing inside the getrag has some side play. i installed the inboard end of the old axle seen in photo and was able to pull it in and out of the trans with a clunking sound by no more than .030" (1/32"). is it acceptable for this bearing to have some side play? hopefully i dont have to split the getrag.

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87 GT Stock 2.8L

bump, anyone know why i might have clunking noise from back when turning? might a new axle and hub fix this?

quote Originally posted by gregr75: bump, anyone know why i might have clunking noise from back when turning? might a new axle and hub fix this?

if loose then yeah. i havent reread the thread just yet
edit: i dont think the getrag should have any play there... i might be wrong but i can't check as mine is stuck in a mud pit

[This message has been edited by cartercarbaficionado (edited 04-24-2025).]

ill try rebuilding with the new axle and hub and see if that does anything

well new axle didnt fix the clunking sound, i finally gave up took it to a mechanic and he tightened up an exhaust clamp. Noise gone.

quote Originally posted by gregr75: well new axle didnt fix the clunking sound, i finally gave up took it to a mechanic and he tightened up an exhaust clamp. Noise gone.

This proves that sometimes the obvious is not the obvious. I had a clunking sound coming from the rear mainly around turns but I found the problem. it was a loose rear liner flap that on turns would come over and hit the tire. Just secured the flaps better, problem solved.

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" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "