Could Be Several Things:
J.M. - When I am driving my 1968 Chevelle I hear a light rubbing sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. When I jack up the rear wheels and run the car the sound is gone. I checked the front wheels, and they spin freely with no noise. I also disconnected the speedometer cable and I still hear it. It seems to only happen when the weight of the car is on the wheels. Could it be the rear end? What can I do to pinpoint the source?
P._. - Does it make the sound at any speed? If it does, have someone walk around the car to listen for (and more closely pinpoint the source) as you slowly drive along. I have had two experiences with bad rear ends on two different vehicles and each had different problems. Both of my problems caused a constant whine/growl/roar (whatever you want to call it). One problem was bad bearing(s), and the other problem was a bad pinion or carrier ring teeth.
P.B. - You could try to support the rear axle on jack stands. This would leave the springs compressed and you might find the rubbing sound. Do not forget to chock the front wheels if you try this.
S._. - Check your u-joints. They could have slack, or one of them may be locked up. The best way to check is to raise the vehicle (do not forget the jack stands), put the car in neutral, and check for slack. If there is not any slack, then remove the drive shaft and check to see if the joints rotate freely.
Archivist: Tom Wilson
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