Found the vibration...now what?

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Thor
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Joined: Thu Sep 12, 2002 7:36 am

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I have a horrible vibration at all speeds...dampens out at higher mph.

I dropped the drive shaft in order to install the new center support bearing (first step in solving the problem). Although the old one didn't seem "bad" I noticed the u-joints on the driveshaft. WOW:eek: There is literally no reason the drive shaft should still be attached to the car. There is so much free-play in the joints I debated putting the shaft back on.

What is the deal with u-joints?- Auto shops say they don't carry them- They look "sealed" (i.e. don't want to budge without pressing)

Other posts stated that S14 owners have to purchase a new driveshaft with the U-Joints already attached. Obviously I have an S13...does that mean that I may be able to purchase the joints separately? Seems a little wasteful otherwise...oh well.

Bottom Line - what are my options? I'm having problems finding u-joints and/or driveshafts anywhere.

I know you guys have some websites that sell these things (PDM, Nopi, etc. have helped yet). Thanks guys,Dave


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Thor
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Super! :rolleyez I figured as much.

Quote »Looks like a boneyard or a dealer item. Bummer.[/quote] For clarification, does this mean that I will be unsuccessful finding this part elsewhere (or a suitable after-market part)?

There isn't a forgotten website, located in a remote corner of the internet, able to provide Nissan owner's with strange and exotic parts? Possibly http://www.things-that-should-...d.com?

I have no problems purchasing static, seemingly nonexpendable items from salvage yards...but u-joints? Hmm. Nissan engineers seem to hold great faith in their ability to design joints with extreme longevity.

Thanks for the reply K-Car,-Dave

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av8mech240sx
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So we have to buy a whole new drive shaft? I thought the joints on the S13 were replaceable. God I hope so...mine are starting to get a little too loose and I was just thinking of changing them out.

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Thor
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O'Reilly's sells reman. shafts (new joints) for $363...this is after the $60 core. Supposedly they come ready to install; already balanced.

I'm not sure what a dealer will charge...I'll know more tomorrow.

I'd try a salvage yard, but the only one close that has 240's is a few hours away...I'm willing to spend the money.

1991240xs
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did you make sure it wasn't just a flat spot in the tires before you tried all this?

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Thor
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Quote »did you make sure it wasn't just a flat spot in the tires before you tried all this?[/quote] The vibration may be a series of multiple things...flat spots on tires, although unlikely, may contribute to the problem. However, I know the u-joints are rotten; took the drive shaft off and studied them.

For all who are interested:

PRICES* Dealership - $599.00 (prop. shaft assembly)* O'Reilly's - $355.00 + $17.00 shipping

I purchased the reman. shaft assembly from O'Reilly's. I'll post the results when it arrives (5-7 days).

- Dave

ou1848
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Joined: Fri Sep 20, 2002 12:11 pm

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you might also want to check the wheel bearings for any sounds or play in the wheels and check the front tie rod ends for play. I had a bad shake and it ended up being just 1 tie rod end that had about 3/16" of play that was throwing everything off. Moog makes aftermarket ready to install Tie rod ends for the S14 at 32$ each. NOt sure about previous models.

to check for the play...just jack up that corner of the car and wiggle it. (hehe)

hope this helps

good luck

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Thor
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ou,Good point - actually dead on. My tie rods & wheel bearings are on the schedule to be replaced...however, while performing automotive triage other patients (brakes, clutch, water pump, etc.) were pushed to the head of the line.

The tie rods are causing any problems yet; they are getting worn out though...I am a bit leary about the wheel bearings though.

-Dave

ou1848
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Dave

MAKE SURE that if you get the new bearings you get NEW ones. I bought a rear hub/bearing assembly from a junk yard and the bearing went bad within 200miles....grrrrr.

http://www.partznet.com has rear wheel bearings for the S14 for $88.00 a piece. (about $109 from the dealer)

let me know if you need assistance in changing them

good luck

mark

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Thor
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Hey Mark,That's a pretty good website! Thanks. They also sell the propeller shaft assembly; $437.00

The rear hub assembly runs about the same as Rock Auto

Great site for future reference.

- Dave


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