'63 544

Two days ago a light rattle/groaning noise from the font center of the car started to occur on decelleration. A quick check for anything loose in the engine compartment and suspension didn't turn up anything obvious. Yesterday the rattle turned into a hard knocking on decelleration and less cringe inspiring rattles/groans at any speed above 5 mph unless under hard accelleration. The frequency of knocks was independent of engine speed, pitch of car and whether or not the clutch was engaged.

This morning the car was up on jack stands to look for loose bolts at the drive shaft flanges. The front was fine. The center flange was fine but a push up on the bearing moved the joint the better part of an inch upward. Both of the rubber carrier bushings are worn completely through on the top side.

The bushings will certainly be replaced before the car goes back to its 150 mile daily drive. Should the carrier bearing also be replaced? Under accelleration there were no unusual noises but I am concerned that the support ears took a lot of abuse over the last 200 miles or so.

Thanks for your thoughts,

Joe M in WV