A strange shudder...

[Nanoose]

In my truck, not me.

I've got a 1955 Series 1, 86 inch Wheel Base. It's my daily driver and generally runs ok. But I've noticed recently that when I take my foot off the gas that there is quite a loud "shudder" coming from what sounds like the rear end. If I depress the clutch or if I apply any gas it goes away immediately. Does this sound familiar to anyone?

Thanks in advance...

Dave

[disco2hse]

Universals

[Tim Smith]

Agreed. Check the rear drive shaft for any play at the ends.

[Nanoose]

I'll check ASAP...

Dave

[disco2hse]

Three things to look for. If there is any indication that either of the circlips on the universals have been revolving then that shows there is play in the bearings (the roller bearings are shot in other words). Gripping one end of the universal and forcefully rotating it backward and forward (clockwise and anti-clockwise in you prefer) should show if there is any play laterally and obviously there should be none. And, with a short crow bar with a pointy end stuck in either end of the universal (you do both ends anyway) and gently levering against the yoke should show any play in that direction, and again there should be none.

So, any of these exist and you should drop the drive shaft out and get the universals rebuilt, or do it yourself (lots of people do). Any competent driveline specialist ought to be able to do the job. The parts are all pretty generic.

This link illustrates the process UJ Replacement (http://www.rarebits4classics.co.uk/Hints%20and%20Tips/UJ%20Replacement.htm). It refers to a Trumpy Herald but as I said, they are pretty generic. The only tricky bits is making sure the pins in the roller bearings are properly placed before reassembling.