[colfair]

Hi i've just noticed a slight whine/whirring sound that seems to be coming from the front end of the car, it becomes noticable at about 60mph onwards and is only in the straight ahead position, if i turn slightly to the left or right on a curve it dissapears completely. I'm thinking maybe differential? the car is a 2002/3 V6 SE UK spec if its a diff problem could an additive help? it's not a very loud whirring sound and i have to turn the radio off in order to hear it?
Its just one of those sounds that once you know its there you can't ignore it !! Just to clarify, the car is an automatic and the auto trans functions as it should, also there are no leaks from the tranny.

 

[colfair]

update

Well, the noise just got worse, I've been under the car and it appears that that the R/H drive shaft has quite a lot of play in it up where the inner drive shaft bearing is, so it may be the intermediate bearing (hopefully), if it is it'll be a hell of a lot cheaper to get fixed than the tranny, for anyone who hasn't been under a V6 the R/H drive shaft is in 2 parts with a bearing and carrier in the middle, we live and learn eh?

 

[zepher]

I'd do the whole assembly while I was under there if I was you.
The CV axle already has plenty of miles on it and since you have to remove the axle to replace the intermediate shaft you may as well replace the whole thing so you don't have to get back under there any time soon.

Also, remember that your tranny fluid will come pouring out when you remove the intermediate shaft so be ready with a catch pan and new fluid to go back in the trans.

 

[colfair]

Thanks for the input Zeph I'd forgotten about the ATF coming out ! What a mess that would have been !

 

[colfair]

SOLVED ! Took the car in to the shop today and for once had a pleasant surprise, it turned out that the problem was a Wheel bearing right hand side, the guy replaced it for me and its back to new now Cost £102.
On the subject of parts, the wheel bearing cost £49, my son got one for his BMW 5series for £18 ????? still, im just glad to have it sorted, thanks to all who responded.

 

[zepher]

Good to hear that your car is back in shape.

That was really cheap for the entire job.
Here in the states that would have been at least double what you paid.

 

[colfair]

thanks for the reply, I use a local independent guy who is good and always does a good job at a fair price, a refreshing change ! Can' believe the difference.