vibration

[rob4155]

Hi,i have a 2010 mk7 transit problem is when i get up to around 48-50 mph van vibrates, if i take foot off accelerator it stops or if i accelerate to get van over 50 it stops, it does not vibrate through steering wheel, have had wheels balanced, and tracking checked, has anybody any ideas

[T350camper]

Is it front or rear wheel drive? If RWD, check the propshaft UJ's for wear and the rubber doughnut for cracking etc.

[gt_addict]

Could be a rear wheel bearing if FWD. Had a little "shimmy" when cruising at 50-60mph but only slight. When changing discs and pads all round the rear wheel was all over the shop.

[DanMK7uk]

Worth checking tyres too

[van_man]

Do you feel the vibration through the steering wheel? or does it feel through the seat/chassis?
That could help narrow down the issue to the front wheels.
If you feel it through the steering wheel, swap the wheels from the front to the rear, then see if you still feel it through the wheels.
If yes, its related to the wheels. (Damaged tyres, bent rims, unbalanced etc)
If no, but still in the front, then look at wheel bearings, play in the steering rack and tie rod ends.
If you think you've isolated it to one side, swap the wheels to the other side and see if the vibration moves with it.

If you are feeling it through the seat/chassis, drive with a helper that can move around a bit, get them to see if they can hear the location by sitting in different spots of the van, front, rear etc.
Vibrations can come from the tail shaft (rwd) or rear wheel bearings, less common would be the diff bearings (rwd)
If you are at that speed, when you lift off the power, does it stop? (if it doesn't, this could indicate excessive backlash in the driveline/diff)
What about on a downhill decent? does the vibration still continue? (Also leads towards driveline backlash)

You say the vibration happens at a particular road speed. Does the vibration still happen at that speed if the engine rpm is different? eg, change into a higher gear. a yes or no will help isolate if its related to the engine, or if its related to the gearbox (somewhere in between the output shaft and the wheels)

My guess is that it's in the tailshaft, one of the joints is worn out. (assuming rwd)
You can check by getting under the van and feeling for movement in the tailshaft. Grab the shaft either side of a joint and try to twist it back and forwards, it shouldn't have any play in it. if the joints are wearing out, you'll feel a little 'clunk' as that play is evident.
Push and pull the whole shaft back and forwards and up and down to see if you can feel any play or clunking in the tailshaft carrier bearing too.

[rob4155]

the van is fwd,will also check rear wheel bearings,but it just went through mot so i would think bearings are ok,the front tyres are new,ballanced and tracked,when the vibration starts if i ease off accelerator vibration stops or if i change down a gear,if i keep it in 4th till i hit 49-50 then change to 5th it wont vibrate,there is no vibration through steering wheel at all,but it seems to be comeing from the front of van,thanks for all your input

[metalworker0]

Perhaps you've lost one of the new balance wights off the wheels

or is it drive shafts - what is the mileage

all the best.mark

[gt_addict]

I was thinking the same as you mark. Lost weight or driveshaft/CV joints.

[knobby1]

the van is fwd,will also check rear wheel bearings,but it just went through mot so i would think bearings are ok,the front tyres are new,ballanced and tracked,when the vibration starts if i ease off accelerator vibration stops or if i change down a gear,if i keep it in 4th till i hit 49-50 then change to 5th it wont vibrate,there is no vibration through steering wheel at all,but it seems to be comeing from the front of van,thanks for all your input

Vibration at wheel speed will more than likely be the inner drive shaft CV joints not happy, they lock up under load and cause the van to hop a bit.

Lord Knobrot

[rob4155]

dont think wheel weights,drive shafts not to sure,is there any way of testing them ?

[metalworker0]

You could jack it up and turn each wheel listen for rumble , feel drive shafts for excessive play

Easier for me just to paste in here what the net says about it as ..its been explained better than i could many times . so why type it all out when its all ready created.
You could also watch youtube videos on how to inspect. example https://www.youtube.com/shorts/UV9E1JBBMZM

What google says :


AI Overview
The Common Signs of Driveshaft Problems - Driveshaft UK
A failing drive shaft in a front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicle can manifest in several ways, including vibrations, shuddering, difficulty turning, loud clunking noises, and a squeaking sound. These issues often arise from worn bushings, U-joints, or slip yokes within the drive shaft.
Symptoms of a Failing Front Drive Shaft (FWD):
Vibrations and Shuddering:
Intense vibrations and shuddering, especially when accelerating or at higher speeds, are common signs of a failing drive shaft.
Difficulty Turning:
A failing drive shaft can make it difficult to turn the vehicle, as the wheels may not receive the proper amount of torque.
Loud Clunking or Knocking Noises:
Loud clunking or knocking noises, particularly when turning, can indicate worn U-joints or slip yokes.
Squeaking Noise:
A squeaking noise, especially when accelerating or turning, may also indicate a problem with the drive shaft, potentially due to worn bushings or bearings.
Shuddering Upon Acceleration:
The car may shudder upon acceleration, especially if the driveshaft is vibrating excessively.
Loss of Power:
In severe cases, a broken drive shaft can lead to a complete loss of power to the front wheels.

Possible Causes:

Loose or Broken Components:
Loose or broken components, such as bolts or mounting brackets, can also contribute to drive shaft issues.

Consequences of Ignoring a Failing Drive Shaft:
Damage to Other Components:
Excessive vibration from a failing drive shaft can cause damage to other components of the drivetrain, such as the transmission or differential.

Steering and Handling Issues:
A failing drive shaft can make it difficult to steer and handle the vehicle.
Increased Risk of Accidents:
A broken drive shaft can lead to a complete loss of power and control, increasing the risk of accidents.
Recommendations:
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Do not delay repairs, as ignoring a failing drive shaft can lead to further damage and potential safety hazards.


Steering Alignment or Drive Shaft Issue?
7 Sept 2022 — The most obvious symptom of a bad driveshaft is when you have trouble with turning your vehicle. Your wheels won't rece...



The Common Signs of Driveshaft Problems - Driveshaft UK
There are several signs of drive shaft problems, on front-wheel drive vehicles, one is vibration whilst driving in a straight line, normally it starts with a slight vibration at 20, 30, 40, 50 or even 60mph. You can usually drive through it, but it will reappear when you get back to that speed, if still under load.

Testing a Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD) driveshaft failure involves inspecting for common issues like vibrations, noises, and turning difficulties. A failure analysis can also be conducted to determine the mode, cause, and root cause of the failure.

Detailed Inspection and Testing:
1. Visual Inspection:
Check for any visible damage to the driveshaft, CV joints, or related components.
2. Noise and Vibration Testing:
Listen for clicking, knocking, or grinding noises while cornering, which can indicate worn CV joints. Check for vibrations that intensify with speed, which may suggest loose joints or a bent shaft.
3. Turning and Steering Tests:
If the vehicle has difficulty turning or the steering feels stiff, it could indicate a drive shaft problem restricting normal wheel movement.
4. Rotation and Movement Checks:
Manually inspect the U-joints or CV joints for excessive play or movement.
5. Root Cause Analysis:
If a failure is identified, a root cause analysis can be conducted to determine the underlying reason for the failure. This may involve comparing the failed part with a known good one, duplicating the failure, and analyzing the vehicle's design, operation, and environment.

me speaking now, not included in above

find car park ...drive round in circles with steering on maximum lock, in each direction, knocking indicates the outer cv joint has had it.

all the best.mark

[rob4155]

thankyou all,will try looking at driveshafts and let you all know

[metalworker0]

if a camper etc and its been parked for a long while ..and it had lost air out of the tyres , then it could have permanent flat spots on the tyres.

all the best.mark

[rob4155]

had my van jacked up to test driveshafts,there was play on both sides,not that much play but i could move both sides up and down,so maybe that is causing the vibration,i dont know if there should be any play on the driveshafts or not

[metalworker0]

The most likely part to cause the vibration is the bearing in the middle of the driveshaft on the drivers side.

One drive shaft is longer than the other, so has to have this support bearing on that side . ,, my inner driveshaft joints are worn and they don't cause vibration, but they do make clunking sounds in high gear at too low a speed.

The test for centre bearing on the long shaft is sort of dangerous, because you will not have a car ramp etc ..

involves axle stands and you listening whilst its revolving under power, engine running - in gear ... in other words the danger is you putting your head next to a revolving part. not being aware of the danger ETC .

Sometimes you can revolve it by hand and listen to it with screwdriver, stethoscope etc .

all the best.mark