88 Maxima Mystery Sound

[DanDare]

88 Maxima, 98K miles. I've noticed over the past couple of months that when I accelerate from a stopped position, there is a buckling / clanking sound coming from the front right area. It seems to only occur as I accelerate from a stopped position, then goes away once I get some speed built up, usually after about 5 seconds or so. The sound is more loud if accelerate more quickly. At normal cruising speed, there is no sound at all.

What could it be? I had both axles replaced about 10K miles ago. Could it be the CV joint already going bad? Any other guesses?? Thanks!

[s13sr20chris]

is it continous or momentary?

is it vehicle speed related or engine speed related?

does it change tone?

depending on your answers i am thinking anything from motor mount to exhaust heat shield to suspension bushing.

[NISTECH]

AlsoWhen was the last time you did your timing belt?

Maybe its loose?

[DanDare]

Timing belt was just done about 15K ago. The sound is not constant, just for a few seconds (during acceleration). It's definitely not engine speed related, it only happens when I accelerate from a stopped position. It's almost a crunching/buckling sound. I did notice that if I am at a stopped position on a downward slope, and then begin acceleration down the hill, it doesn't make the sound.