Grinding noise when in reverse

[Punkfinder]

I'm hearing a grinding/clunking noise coming from the rear of my 93 SE-V6 when going in reverse, but only when turning in reverse. If I'm backing up in a straight line, no noise at all.

 

I seem to remember reading somewhere in this forum that it could be the LSD, but searched and couldn't find mention of it. Perhaps it trying to engage even though there's no tire slippage?

 

Has anyone experienced this and know what's going on?

 

Thanks

Edited August 16, 2011 by Punkfinder

[sewebster]

I have not experienced, it, but the LSD is always "engaged." The two side gears in the differential which drive the two rear wheels are coupled together by a group of friction discs. Normally the discs all turn together, and both rear wheels turn at the same speed. If there is two much resistance difference between the rear wheels, the friction discs can slip relative to one another, allowing the rear wheels to turn at different rates. This is good for making turns on pavement for instance.

 

Usually it shouldn't really make noise, unless you have the wrong fluid, in which case the friction discs might not be able to slip and then you can get some binding, as if you had a locked differential. It shouldn't really matter if you are going forward or backward that I can tell.

 

Worn rear link bushings?

[Alkorahil]

If it is a single clunk noise when you go into reverse check the U joints on the drive shaft.

 

 

Take a look at your rear brake shoes as well if you have rear drums to see if they are worn out or need adjusting, check also the rear suspension bushings, when you shift from forward to reverse the weight of the vehicle is redistributed and can make a clunk sound if any of these are worn out.

[NissanNismoZ]

i have the same 'grinding sound' only in reverse, turns out its the rear drums. hope this helps explain it!

[Punkfinder]

Just swapped out my rear DISC brakes (new pads,rotors,calipers), which I had to do anyway.

 

I also tightened up the rear sway bar (it was loose) and there is definitely less noise so far.

 

I'll update after I drive it for a few days.

[Precise1]

If it is a single clunk noise when you go into reverse check the U joints on the drive shaft.

 

 

Take a look at your rear brake shoes as well if you have rear drums to see if they are worn out or need adjusting, check also the rear suspension bushings, when you shift from forward to reverse the weight of the vehicle is redistributed and can make a clunk sound if any of these are worn out.

 

 

 

B