Hey Everyone!

Brand new to the forum and just bought my dream 68 Charger RT 440. Wanted it since 1975 and finally pulled the trigger. Most everything works well, mostly little fun projects to fix. noticed a fairly loud clunking sound timed to the axle or wheel rotation from the left side rear. Thinking might be wheel bearing but not sure.

Any suggestions on how to diagnose and possible links to forums for fix it help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
Eric

 

Welcome.

Lift both wheels off the ground and spin one, if the other spins in the same direction you have a Limited Slip Differential, if it spins in the opposite direction it is an Open Differential.

While spinning listen for noise and push and pull the wheel in and out. Open differential clunking is likely spider gears. Diagnosing the bearing will be easier with the wheel and brake drum off so you can hear and feel the bearings better. This will be much easier if you disconnect the driveshaft from rear axle yoke.

 

It should be the suregrip or LSD. But I will confirm. I'll jack up the rear end and pull the wheel and brake drum and see what's going on. I'm guessing it is the bearing as it is a clear "clunk" from the left side. Thanks for the info. not 100% sure what I'm looking for, not having done it, but I guess that's half the fun. Keep you posted.

 

With OEM taper bearing push the axle in while turning. A friend turning the axle and you with a mechanics stethoscope touching all four bearing spots can find it too.

 

Welcome, I no this sounds simple but make sure the wheels tight.

 

Simple is good, it's often overlooked. Thank you! Ill keep everyone posted.

 

68 -

I have no idea what's going on with your car, but before you point to the diff or axles, take a VERY good look at the rest of the suspension and U-joints. Not saying that's it, but if you have the original springs and drive shaft, they may not be perfect.

Basically, you have to look at everything and try to rule things out. And yeah, start with the wheels!

Archer

 

Well, turns out that Iowan was correct. The left rear wheel was loose. But may not be a simple fix, if I want to keep the original wheels. The lug holes have been enlarged and damaged due to what looks like overtightening of the lug nuts over time.

I have the original broadcast sheet and trying to find an original replacement. The wheel code is 16B with hub cap 95. The wheels seem to be painted a "tan" which does not seem to be too common. If anyone has leads on original wheels, I'd appreciate it. I know modern wheels are stronger, but trying to keep it original.

-Eric