[Bigblox]

My 30k original mile `02 6-speed SS has recently developed what I would best describe as a dull "thud" type of noise that seems to coming from either the rear end or the rear brakes (the brakes - probably less likely) while braking and/or down shifting while letting out the clutch as the car slows to a stop. This usually happens at about 10 mph or less. I first noticed this while backing out of the driveway in reverse (down a hill) before shifting into 1st, but it typically happens at all times now. The more abrupt the braking/clutch release, the more pronounced the "thud". My initial thought was the rear U-Joint, and it might be, but it seems like I should get better than 30k miles out of a U-Joint. One way or the other, the main trigger that causes this seems to be relieving any load on the drivetrain, whether it's through braking or releasing the clutch or a combination of both. This car is fully loaded, with all SLP options and it's original LS1. It currently has 2002 Z06 wheels with Nexan 2000 275-40-17's. Any thoughts or inputs on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Bigblox

[arocars]

I would start at the u-joint. It is the most likely part to fail and cheapest to replace.

[Bigblox]

Thanks for the input. I checked both the U-Joints and all looks good considering the fairly low mileage of the car. Has anyone ever experienced this kind of issue due to tranny or rear end bushing (trailing arm) mount wear?

[67SS&99SS]

It could be the torque arm bushing. When you pulled the driveshaft, did you spin the pinion yolk back and forth to see if there was excessive motion or to see if you could reproduce the clunk?

[copo9560]

Check the torque arm attachment at the transmission. There is a funky clamp that ended up loose on a friends Gen IV and made a similar clunk.

[dondb]

X2.....had same issue, it was the torque arm bushing on my 4th gen.

Originally Posted by copo9560

Check the torque arm attachment at the transmission. There is a funky clamp that ended up loose on a friends Gen IV and made a similar clunk.