76 Rear end noise

[canuck76]

After lengthy highway drive my 76 was making "bad" noises. Occasionally, was also getting a clunk in turns. One garage couldn't find any problem. Next guys passed on the following:

"The rear spindle support arm bushings on the right hand side rear of the vehicle have worn allowing the spindle to move excessively, unfortunately this is a fairly common problem on these cars. This movement has driven the axle stub shafts into the rear diff housing, the axle has also most likely caused wear on the inside of the diff were the axle meets the center diff pin. The rear suspension as well as the rear diff will need to be disassembled for full inspection in order to determine what parts will be required for repairs. Availability of parts may possibly be an issue as well. Time involved in repair is around 7 hours for spindle support bushings and up to 8.5 hours for diff depending on extent of damage."

I tend to disagree with the parts availabilty comment, and it looks like a very expensive fix. Any thoughts or alternate ideas out there before I'm forced to "break the bank"?

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,
While these are common, I would recommend that a 'technician' diagnose the noise.
They can use a listening device known as 'chassis ears' to isolate the condition.
It could be anything like that, and it could be a universal joint, so accuracy is key to effective repair for the least amount of money.
Allthebest, c4c5

[canuck76]

Thanks for the tip. Good advice, I'll let you know how it works out.

[canuck76]

Ring and pinion bolts appear to be only "finger tight", things were kind of left to "float around" in there. Stub shafts will be replaced, rear bearings and seals, and one U joint but otherwise not too bad. I guess it's a bad news - good news event.

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,
Thank you for keeping us posted.
Allthebest, c4c5