[astroede]

So to update my post of a couple days ago: I still have NOT been able to isolate this problem of a low rattle growl upon hard right hand acceleration. I have been driving around in circles around our culdesacs to the point my neighbors are probably ready to call the cops. I have verified that my caster blocks are in good shape and are relatively new. I had a full alignment done a month ago. Rotor shields are not hitting rotors. Heat shields are tight and intact. Power steering fluid good and no leaks. Engine oil correct level. Found right coil spring was out of its nest at top, relocated it, and it made no difference. Both outer wheel bearings repacked and reset; did not check inners due to disassembly effort required; wheels spins quietly and does not rock. I have been under the car looking until I know it like the back of my hand, and nothing appears amiss (wow, looks pretty good for a 17 year old car). One mounting bushing on the steering rack (closest to steering wheels) has lost its edges and probably could use replacement at some point. Exhaust pipes all tight and solid. Engine mounts...look to be original, and rubber a little cracked around the edges; I didn't measure height...should I? Can feel engine idling a little while sitting...normal? Engine performance...awesome and normal as I know it. Mileage: 76000.

I confirmed that this sound only occurs when I throttle pretty hard, and the sound stops when I ease off the throttle and/or wheel is straightened or turned left. I can feel it a little in the throttle pedal, which makes me wonder if it is engine related (something attached perhaps?). I have not checked the rear wheel bearings or differential since it seems to be coming from the front.

Hoping that one of you 968 wizards can give me some other things to check out before I have to bring it into the shop (I hate to do that if it is something easy!). As a BONUS until this problem is fixed: I have a full set of brand new parking brake shoes I didn't use for the person who correctly identifies the problem!

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[astroede]

Found this on the web regarding a Toyota; sounded similar to my problem: "Recently I bought a 1998 Corolla. Manual transmission. When I make right turn and accelerating there is a growling noise (like the one from a leaking exhaust) and slight vibrations coming from the front (possibly right). I had it aligned and checked for tie rods/axles/bearings etc.. Everything is OK."
Ultimate answer (for this guy): "For those who followed the thread - broken lower engine mount and broken transmission mount. The engine is shifting sideways, the metal-to-metal contact with the frame makes the noise and vibration at higher torque."
Just another piece of information.

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.

[astroede]

By the way, I don't personally think this is a motor mount issue in my case. The motor does not shake, and it does not move excessively on starting. Light vibration is felt throught the steering wheel and gear shift only. I did get out tonight and did some "hard driving" (hard as I can do in a 45 mph zone...)...including very hard braking. It seemed that the noise diminished afterward, but I will listen closer tomorrow. I did do a full brake replacement a month ago...could the symptoms I described be related to brakes somehow?

Partial Post: Please Login or Register to read the full post.