Driveline Vibration
Driveline VibrationNOTE: An analysis of driveline vibration can also be conducted using the Vibration Analyzer, following the manufacturer's directions.
Driveline vibration exhibits a higher frequency and lower amplitude than does high-speed shake. Driveline vibration is directly related to the speed of the vehicle and is usually noticed at various speeds. Driveline vibration can be perceived as a tremor in the floorpan or is heard as a rumble, hum or boom. Driveline vibration can exist in all driving modes, but may exhibit different symptoms depending upon whether the vehicle is accelerating, decelerating, floating or coasting. Check the driveline angles if the vibration is particularly noticeable during acceleration or deceleration, especially at lower speeds. Driveline vibration can be duplicated by supporting the axle using a hoist or jack stands, though the brakes may need to be applied lightly in order to simulate road resistance.
1. NOTE: When carrying out these procedure steps on four wheel drive (4WD) vehicles, raise and support the vehicle so that all 4 wheels do not touch the ground.
Raise the vehicle promptly after road testing. Use jack stands to prevent tire flat-spotting. Engage the drivetrain and accelerate to the observed road test speed to verify the presence of the vibration. If the vibration is not evident, check the non-driving wheels with a wheel balancer to rule out imbalance as a possible cause. If required, balance the non-driving wheels and repeat the road test. If the vibration is still evident, proceed to Step 2.
2. Mark the relative position of the drive wheels to the wheel lugs. Remove the wheels. Install all the wheel nuts in the reversed position and repeat the road speed acceleration. If the vibration is gone, refer to the tire and wheel runout procedure. If the vibration persists, refer to Driveshaft Runout and Balance.