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MG MGB Technical - Knocking when releasing clutch or engaging the brakes

Recently I have noticed that when I let out the clutch from 2nd gear or when I put the brakes on, there is a knock sound. It sounds like its coming from the left rear side or maybe the middle of the car. What do you think?
Thanks for your help!
Margo Lubbers
Margo Lubbers

Margo,

You may want to have a look at the universal joints. One or both of them may be trying to tell you something. Fortunately, u-joints are not real expensive but you may want to have them installed if you are not real proficient at such things.

Cheers - Dennis - Sacramento
Dennis Rainey

Do you have wire wheels? Worn splines could give the knock you mention.
Mike Howlett

Check the rear shock absorbers. They can work loose and cause a clunk sound with braking/acceleration. Free to fix if that is the problem.
J Arthurs

Your problem could be rear axle clunk….look at this page to see how to have your rear axle rebuilt.
http://www.mgbexperience.com/service/tips/rearend.html#1
Cecil Kimber

Also check the lower outer pivot bolt on the front suspension where it goes through the wishbone arms - if seized up the bolt wears the holes oval and the bolt moves up and down under acceleration / braking giving a clonk that travels through the car.

you will need to undo the split pin and nut to see the condition of one side of the wishbone - the other needs the bolt driven out. If you haven't had these out recently, expect them to be seized up - even regular greasing doesn't really work as the drilling allows the grease to bypass the bottom bush and travel up the kingpin - especially if the kingpin is worn.

Get a full kit to replace the bolt, washers, boots, and distance tube - the bush itself rarely needs replacing. If the wisbones are worn, either weld round the hole and redrill to size or get new wishbones. Reckon on a full day or even two to get the job done!
Chris Betson

This thread was discussed between 12/07/2002 and 13/07/2002

MG MGB Technical index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGB Technical BBS is active now.