m a x i m u s

Hey, guys. My car just literally started making a weird rubbing sound. It's hard to describe, but it sounds more like a rubbery rub versus a metallic rub, and it is rhythmic (same kind of rhythm like when you get a nail in your tire), and only when I drive forward (doesn't happen in reverse). I'm 99.99% sure the sound is coming from the rear center of the car. And it affects the way my car drives, very similar feeling to either a flat tire or a bent wheel if I go over 50 MPH or so. My first thought was that I ran something over, even though I don't recall doing so, so I took a look at all the wheel wells and the wheels and the tire treads, and there's nothing abnormal. I didn't jack up the car, but I took a peek underneath, and I didn't see anything amiss. Anyone have any thoughts as to what this might be? I don't think it's driveshaft because it only happens when I go forward, and I'm hoping it's not LSD related (no leaks, for the record). I also don't think it's a bearing because it's not a constant sound, and it's not a metallic sound either. Also don't think it's a stuck caliper piston because it's definitely not a brake rub noise.

Mort

Sounds like the center support on the driveshaft to me.

m a x i m u s

Thanks, Mort. This only happens in drive, though (not in reverse) and also happens when creeping during idle. I'm gonna take a closer look tomorrow, I'm hoping it's something dumb and simple.

m a x i m u s

Just to close the circle: I took a closer look today and turns out I had 2 broken lug bolts in the left rear and the remaining 3 were backing themselves out. Basically, the wheel was hella loose and I'm guessing the toe was causing the tire to rub rolling forward and not reverse. Anyway, time to search the forums for a reputable lug bolt vendor (12 and 10 mm spacers).

Mort

Otis Inc LA has RAD lug bolts and others. They might have something you like. The RAD are good quality but not fancy looking.

https://otisincla.com/

m a x i m u s

Thanks, man, I will check out the site. The lug bolts I was using came with my spacers off of Amazon. Honestly, I was wondering when they would break; they lasted about 1 year.

m a x i m u s

Just ordered some. I was surprised that Phil answered my email so quickly, and on a Sunday evening no less. FYI, he said RAD is going out of business. I bought the "OtisLA" ones, which he said are Italian made.