123 Series 230TE 1981 auto rear bangs

[TimN]

I have a strange problem with the above car. On longer journeys a banging noise comes from the rear of the car. It only occurs after 40 or 50. When I pull over and check the underside there is no obvious signs of a problem. Getting back in the car and driving away the noise stops and does not return for the rest of the journey. When the noise occurs there is no difference in ride quality so I don't think that it is connected to the self levelling system in any way. Obviously it is connected to something warming up but it baffles me. Anyone gat any ideas?

 

[NormanB]

Exhaust system?

 

[TimN]

Nope. Exhaust banging is quite distinctive. This is more like the wheels are going to fall off or something.

 

[DVF]

Hi,

About the only thing that warms up at the back of the car is the differential.

Could be a worn bearing or something in there. The oil when cold would hold things in place better but when warmed up it will allow things to move around more, letting things to catch where they're not supposed to.

The self levelling suspension could still cause it though, if the bangs happen when you go over bumps etc.