I just got a '91 RS and noticed that there is a squeaking sound coming from the rear end.

I pushed the car up and down and it doesn't do it but when i rock the car from side to side it does. I've checked the exhaust hangers and components to see if something was loose but it was all tight.

The drivers side rear tire also seems to have some in/out play in it. Is there something wrong with the rear axle? There are no oil leaks around the seal and there is no front/rear play, just about 1/16 of an inch in and out play.

Also, would it be really difficult to replace all the bushings under the rear end?

Thanks

 

There should be some axle end play, 1/16" is about right.

It's extremely easy to change out the bushings. The easiest way is to just put in new control arms, which is what the bushings are pressed into; aftermarket ones such as Lakewood are about $80 and you can do them in your driveway.

Your squeeking noise is probably the stabilzer bar bushings or end links. Try shooting some spray silicone lube on them and see if it goes away.

 

Thanks for the quick reply...I kinda suspected the end links on the sway bar. When I pulled the tire they were cracked.

I didn't mention in my first post, but it seems when I rock the car side to side there is also a small, almost unnoticeable clunk. Would the worn bushings cause this also?

I'm crossing my fingers and hoping that I won't have to do any axle work anytime soon.

 

guarantee it's just bushings. Replace the bad ones, add plenty of grease, and off you go again. I highly doubt it's anything else.

 

Thanks for the help, I guess I've got a weekend project a head of me.

 

The squeak noise in the rear tire/axle area is from the caliper floating in the retaining bracket. Look where they meet- sharp edges can be very slightly filed and then alittle moly grease in between the slide points.