Banging noise under load, what can I do??

[tonyd1]

Hi Guys, I recently took my van out for the first run after winter, and after starting in the morning a week into my holiday I noticed a tap tap tap noise. I thought at first it may have been the wheels etc, but after putting my foot on the clutch and it stopped. I was doing some 1st gear hills round new haven, and it was getting worse, so I drove to the nearest populated town to collect my thoughts. After a cup of tea and a sandwich I decided to cut the holiday short and take it easy getting home. 6 miles down the road, and a few hills time, the knocking got to the point where I was in fear of doing some serious damage to the engine, so I pulled in and phoned the RAC (One of those times I was glad to be a member). After a pleasant 7 hr trip home with a really nice driver (KIm from Pembroke) I'm left looking at my van wondering what the eck to do? I know my way around an engine, and think its the big end bearings, but I just dont know my next move. Any suggestions or help??

Its a 1.9 petrol, and I'm in the Stafford area.

[Aidan]

check the gear oil, it may not be an engine issue, if you haven't changed the oil recently it's worth doing and if my hunch is right the drain plug will tell you quick

[tonyd1]

Thanks for your response. I changed the oil last year, less than 500 miles ago, and seems fine. What do you think it is?

Surely if it was the gearbox then the noise would have continued after I put my foot on the clutch??

[icosahedron]

Could well be dry cv joints. Unless you clean and repack the joints every five years or so it is bound to happen. Happened to me seven years after I bought my van new.

[CovKid]

...or loose bolts on same.

[ghost123uk]

...or loose bolts on same.

Seconded on that, loose drive shaft bolts, either end, perhaps.
Easy to check.

Next to check is wheel nuts.

If it was a big end and as bad a noise as you describe, you would hear it all the time, even ticking over, though the intensity would vary of course. Plus the oil pressure would drop and the warning system would kick in.

p.s. = aidens hunches esp re gearboxes are often correct, check that (magnetic) gearbox drain plug for debris.

[tonyd1]

Thanks guys, you make some interesting points. I thought the oil pressure would be a telling factor if it was the big end. I haven't had a chance to investigate yet, but will certainly take on board your points when hypothesising. Fingers crossed your right. x

[tonyd1]

quick question,

If the gearbox is shot (and I'm beginning to lean that way after starting it up with no problems coming from the engine), can I replace with a 5 speed?

[ghost123uk]

quick question,

If the gearbox is shot (and I'm beginning to lean that way after starting it up with no problems coming from the engine), can I replace with a 5 speed?

You can but you have to change the linkages and the gear lever and mechanism as well.
From what I have seen there is no advantage in doing this = no improvements in performance or MPG. There are some disadvantages, (like getting used to the odd "dog leg" position of 1st gear)

Have you checked the drive shaft flange bolts (inner & outer)and wheel nuts yet (it is peeing down and blowing a gale here )

[tonyd1]

No Ghost, not yet. We have a lot of rain too (Although I did contemplate it).
I will be on it hopefully tomorrow, and keep you posted.

I appreciate your help.

Tony.

[jonno]

I have the same noise but only there when i lift off the accelerator and slowing down, only started yesterday when we were 1/2 mile from home after a 250 mile trip. Plan to have a look later.

Jonno

[lancaster617]

Its a very good chance it is the cv boot being too dry....mine would make the noise when under stress, ie climbing a hill or when in constant stop start traffic. Pack the boots with grease....should fix it!

[tonyd1]

I'm thinking you could be right. I took the van on a 10 mile run yesterday to try and simulate the problem, and would you believe it ... nothing!! Drove like a dream. I'm not complaining because I dont have to fork out for a new engine or gearbox at the moment, but very strange. It only happened when the vehicle was warm, so new gearbox oil (the engine oil is fine) and pack the CV joints with grease. Then a weekend away, somewhere close to home I think. Thanks all of you who posted...This is just one of the things that makes driving a T25 special..You guys! much love. xx

[Davidkirk]

Sorry to but in. Know it's a pathetic question but how do you pack the cv joints. Is there a greasebnipple

[tonyd1]

Haha, I was thinking the same thing...