Fellow Bricksters:
So, what is it exactly? I've replaced all the rear bushings and made sure they're all torqued to specs (wheels down). All three u-joints were replaced not too long ago and I'm sure they're good, too. No slop/play on those joints. Any ideas, guys and gals? Is it my axle making the noise? Thanks.
Denny

Denny --

I second everything on Simon's list. Last summer I replaced my rear shocks ('86 245) and overlooked tightening the top studs, which have a concealed nut on the inside of the chassis. Tough to find 'n see, but easy to tighten once found. Hammered like hell 'til I socked 'em up.

Also, when you replaced all the bushings, did you also replace the big mutha "trailing arm bushings," which are pressed into flanges on the axle housing?

Is it a wagon? If so, you also have a bunch of things related to the tailgate that can rattle.
--
Don Foster (near Cape Cod, MA)

Denny,

A few things I considered when trying to track down a similar noise (turned out to be U-joints in my case):

- Exhaust pipe hitting rear axle tube (maybe new bushings changed clearance between the two)

- Exhaust system in general - shake it hard, see what happens

- Bad transmission mount

- Bad/loose rear shock

- Loose rear brake caliper, or seized piston causing retracted pad to rattle

- Crap banging around in trunk

- Bad center support bearing/assembly

I found it helpful to try to identify the nature/tone of the noise, and the circumstances when it occurs. Then try to visualize which components could possibly be responsible. Good luck!

Simon