Looks Like I'm Pulling A Wheelie!

[c_r_thomson 0]

Hi guys. My 91 J plate sits lower at the back which makes the gap between the tyres and the arches at the front look ridiculous. I don't think it has been lowered just at the back but the rear wheels don't look central in the arches.

 

Also, when i come off the accelerator above 3000 revs the car lurches as if i've touched the breaks and squeeks loudly?

 

Rear beam problems? or do i need to change my shocks and replace engine mounts?

[Rob_the_Sparky 9]

First point: The wheel arches are not at the same height front and rear so arch to tyre gaps are never going to be even.

 

However, having said that rear beam issues are expected on most (if not all) cars that have not had a rebuilt one fited. It is just a case of how bad it is. If it has noticably droppedat the rear and is creaking then it is probably pretty far gone. They drop when the outer bearing collapses...

 

Try jacking the rear tyres off the floor. They should move smoothly as the car is lifted (as long as the handbrake is off). If the rear beam is knackered in the way you describe then I'd expect it to creak and move in sudden jumps rather than a smooth extension.

 

Also worth looking from the back of the car to see if the rear tyres are pointing inwards at the tops. This is another classic indicator that the outer bearings have collapsed.

 

Try the search function for rear beam issues, there is plenty on there, including some horrific photos of what is left of the outer bearings on a few beams that have been rebuilt.

 

Can't guarantee that it is the rear beam but it does sound very likely.

 

Rob