Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting axle shaft

what are signs of a bad axle shaft? how can you test them?

It's unusual to have a problem with the shaft itself, but the cv joints in the shaft can go bad. If so, you will likely have a popping/clicking noise when you accelerate and/or when you turn sharply to the right or left. If the cv joints are really bad, you can crawl under the car, and try to shake the joints. A little play is normal, but a lot of slack in the joints is an indication that the joints are worn.

I've been battling a vibration problem for about 6 months now. Had both axels replaced to fix a popping noise and all of the sudden I had a vibration when accelerating. Went back to the shop and the replaced the d/s axel and that helped somewhat, but I still have a vibration when I accelerate going over a hill. I'm going back to get the other one replaced soon. Moral of the story: bent axel = vibration.

When one of my inner joints went south, the car vibrated badly upon acceleration, especially at highway speeds.
I replaced the whole axle assy with a unit from Raxles for about $140, labor by me (its a real PITA).
The new unit came with new outer joint, rebuilt inner, Amsoil synthetic grease and premium boots.

thanx guys danb i know how much of a pita it is ive had the trans out myself 3 times asle shafts are now childs play for me along with the rest of the susp.

Of course check wheel balance and for any bent rims. Also check control arm bushings.. I had this problem and my control arm bushings were shot. The control arm wiggled from side to side once I had it removed from the ball joint. Since I was replacing the axle shaft, picked up a rebuilt one from O'Reilly auto parts for 60 dollars.