Musn't grumble; my BX does, though...

[cauchoiskev]

Maybe someone out there will recognise these symptoms : what I can only describe as a sort of low grumbling noise from the engine compartment at low speed, particuliarly with the foot completely off the throttle.

Foot on the clutch, the noise disappears, so it looks like it's something in the drive train. The frequency of the sound doesn't seem related to speed or revs, and isn't more noticeable in bends.

Both front wheels have about 6cm slack measured at the tyre tread when the wheel is lifted, so that includes the driveshaft and the gearbox. There is no knocking on cornering, and no "snatch" when accelerating from low speed. All the engine mounts are new.

There is also a mild clutch problem, as I still have a bit of judder despite changin all the engine mounts. Don't see what that can have to do with the grumble, though ???

Confused ? I am .

[Kitch]

Sounds like the release bearing to me. Nearly all my cars have noisy ones, I just live with it. Although if its juddering thats a bit more concerning, could be a leaky crank seal or a burnt face on the flywheel.

[cauchoiskev]

Do you reckon the release bearing could cause the grumble even with the clutch fully out, Tim ? It doesn't seem to slip.

In fact, I do have a new clutch in my "things to do" box, but I'm a bit worried about the diffuiculty of the job. And of course, if it's a warped flywheel, a new clutch won't make a damn bit of difference...

[jeremy]

If the rear crankshaft seal is leaking its likely the oil will run round the back of the flywheel, be collected by the bell housing and drain harmlessly onto your nice new drive when the car is stopped.

Clutch judder can be a sign of a worn plate or presser or even the diaphragm spring disintegrating. If the release bearing is audible - then its a fair age.

[Kitch]

Do you reckon the release bearing could cause the grumble even with the clutch fully out, Tim ? It doesn't seem to slip.

In fact, I do have a new clutch in my "things to do" box, but I'm a bit worried about the diffuiculty of the job. And of course, if it's a warped flywheel, a new clutch won't make a damn bit of difference...

Noisy release bearings only occur when the clutch is fully released in my experience. Whenever you push the pedal, the noise goes away.

I'm not Tim BTW

[cauchoiskev]

I'm not Tim BTW

Oops, sorry mate ! No offence intended !

Kevin

[Kitch]

I'm not Kevin either

[cauchoiskev]

I'm not Kevin either

Lucky b*s***d !

[tim leech]

Do you reckon the release bearing could cause the grumble even with the clutch fully out, Tim ? It doesn't seem to slip.

In fact, I do have a new clutch in my "things to do" box, but I'm a bit worried about the diffuiculty of the job. And of course, if it's a warped flywheel, a new clutch won't make a damn bit of difference...

Noisy release bearings only occur when the clutch is fully released in my experience. Whenever you push the pedal, the noise goes away.

I'm not Tim BTW

Lol nope I dont have a beard!

[docchevron]

You should get one mate, it's a growing trend in BX ownership!

Cheers
Chris G

[Kitch]

Beards are for winners......if you own a BX.

[tom]

The nois you describe sounds like it may be due to a worn driveshaft.

[cauchoiskev]

Yep, that's a possibility I've considered Tom.

But I think I'm going to change the control arm bushes first just too see, as they are probably original and a damn sight cheaper than a pair of driveshafts.