10 replies to this topic

[Screwdriver]

Video below for your convenience 

 

I discovered this strange intermittent grinding noise while driving the classic Mini. The sound does not reduce when moving while in neutral, breaking or when using the throttle. Increases in frequency with speed and starts from 1mph onwards. Only stops when you sharply turn left. Nothing stuck underneath the car or dragging and none of the 12 inch wheels appears to be touching any fender. The car is in excellent shape otherwise

 

My initial thought was wheel bearings. Any educated guesses would be appreciated. 

 

 

 

[Blue ass fly]

Can you tell which wheel its coming from
If so jack that wheel up and spin it , see if its easier to locate

[Screwdriver]

I can't tell which side but it is emanating from one of the front wheels. 

[Homersimpson]

Strange noise, is it suspension related? Can you replicate it by bouncing a corner of the car?

 

I would jack it up, spin the wheels, check all of the mountings on the front subframe etc.

 

One other thing I have heard although it always sounded different to this was the tapered washers on the front hubs drying out, these should be greased as they need to be able to move to set the preload on the bearing.

[Screwdriver]

I don't believe it is suspension related as the sound emanates precisely with each tyre rotation during vehicular movement and not with the unevenness of the road surface.

[nicklouse]

wheel bearing.

[Mervyn]

Engine mount failed, engine has dropped and the driveshaft is rubbing on the subframe

That's my guess

Merv

[phillrulz]

Are the hub nuts tight? Could be the drive flange sliding on the taper washer that goes between the hub nut, drive flange and spline?

 

I had a clicking noise which turned out to be the bolts that hold the disk to the drive flange were loose,the disc was rocking forward and back on breaking / acceleration. 

[Screwdriver]

There is no vibration on startup or stop or during driving, so I doubt its the engine mount. I'll have to take it in to check the bolts/ bearings. 

 

I'm guessing driving to a garage is not advisable?

Edited by Screwdriver, 18 September 2017 - 08:53 AM.

[Screwdriver]

To close this one out for future viewers, it was the wheel bearing that had seized to the drive shaft. Replaced with genuine Timken bearings from Minispares. Rides like a low rolling resistance dream now :)

[Spider]

Glad to hear it's sorted and happy days.

 

wheel bearing.

 

Well picked