My '83 is making an odd metallic scraping noise from the rear end, especially in cold weather. Changing lanes at low speed today, I noticed the scraping was interrupted by a low 'clunk' or 'click' and then resumed. Is this suspension related? Axles? Wheels? I have no idea. No mechanics looking at the car have found anything out of the oridinary (though I haven't had them look specifically for the noise--relatively new problem). Car performs very well otherwise. Thanks!

Be suspicious of a failing rear wheel bearing.

I've had several fail on my various 240s, and always first look for a pebble stuck between the rotor and brake pad.

Yes, it tends to happen more in colder weather. It's Nature's way of suggesting a heated garage.

If you can find a junked 240, you can toss the axle shaft (with bearing) from that car into your car. Be SURE to keep the bearing cup (which sits in the axle housing) with the bearing. So if you scrounge an axle w/bearing from a donor, also take the bearing cup.

The right 'n left axles are different.

Pack the bearing before use.

--
Don Foster (near Cape Cod, MA)

I really am no Volvo expert, but here is what i could think it possibly may be, or just things to check on your own.

Is there enough grease in your rear drive axle box?
(has it ever had a slow leak of any kind)

--------------------------------------------------------
---> If the scraping is in conjunction to rotation of the wheels<-----
Are your rear brake pads worn to the metal?
Is one of your rear caliper pistons sticking?
(causing a scraping noise, like on my 240, oh yea i should fix that)
Are both of your rear brake calipers bolted tightly?
What about your rear wheel bearings?

If all of these have checked out ok, then I don't know.

Hope you find the culprit.
Best,
Eric

I have one slight idea, I had a similar scraping sound on my 91 245 for a while. Ended up being the shield thing on by the brake hitting the rotor... see if anything is rubbing there.

Kevin
--
1980 244DL, 1982 245GL, 1987 744GLE, 1991 245SE, 1996 855GLT, 2001 V70