Slosh Kerns

Hey everyone, I'm new to this site but I'm looking for some questions answered about some issues I'm having with my RX8. Just today my girlfriend noticed a constant knocking sound from the rear end mid section and it got worst when there wasn't a load ie. in gear moving. So I was thinking it's the driveshaft? CV?! I have no idea an don't want to pay the dealership one more red cent..... nickel and dimin'. Thanks in advance!

sleeperRX7

I have not had the chance to work on a RX8 yet. I have changed around a hundred u-joints. You need to remove the driveshaft. First mark the position of the driveshaft with a wax crayon or equivalent on the back end. (The rear of the shaft and the pinion gear hub). That way you will put it back in the same postion and it will be balanced correctly. Simply feel for any play in the u-joint. Play could be in the front u-joint or the rear u-joint, or both could be bad. Check the pinion hub on the rear diff. for and excess play up, down, left, right, in, and out. Check the rear axles for excess play as well. Could be a lot of possibilites. Don't forget the wheel hub bearings as well. Based on my experience with imports, usually u joints are not available. May be available through the dealership though. The Honda CRV for example must have a new driveshaft purchased. The originals had the u-joint caps welded in place. I did find aftermarket ones , but it took almost 3 hours to change them! Good luck. Someday I will own one to work on.