john t said:

nicky,, what mileage has yours covered, ?
im getting nervous , as nothing expensive has broke on mine ,71k,
im trying to work out when i will need the 2nd mortgage

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John sorry to say it on 73,000

Mine still has a thumping noise from the rear when I'm on full lock and the VCU is fine on mine (I've done the white line test). It also drags one of the wheels badly on gravel surfaces.

I've just replaced the front diff mount agan after only 6 months, so I think my diff must be fooked, as it does seem to still kick up a bit under load.

What's the cheapest way to repair or replace a diff?

Do any companies offer reconditioning services?

nicky said:

I have a Diesel freelander 2001 which make a load thumping noise when turn corners at low speed it sounds if coming from the center of the vehicle. the steering is tight when parking and reversing can any one help please. Nicky

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Hi Nicky

The braking effect when reversing on full lock may be normal. You would expect some braking effect on any vehicle fitted with a VCU, be it a Suburu or a Freelander.

See: Known Problems Transmission

There are a number of ways to check the VCU.

Ashcroft recommend this way:
Ashcroft Transmissions

Or you can use the landyzone patented "tippex test". Doesn't need any skill, strength or special parts.Dab a bit of tippex (or paint or chalk) on the prop shafts before and after the VCU. Drive around a bit and then see if the marks still line up.

Do a search on this forum for "viscous coupling" and there are some useful threads, including

http://www.landyzone.co.uk/lz/213109-post12.html
http://www.landyzone.co.uk/lz/f9/freelander-vcu-32499-2.html

My money is on this ... The thumping you describe may be one of the rear diff mounts. As the rear diff is put under pressure from the reversing, the unit kicks back and if the rubber mount is worn then it can thump against the underside of the car. It's a nice hollow thump. (That might be due to it being next to the fuel tank!) Can also happen over speed bumps. It is the front diff mount/bush on the rear diff that usually causes the problem and the part is less than £20.

I've attached some pics that I hope will help.

ShotgunDrew said:

What's the cheapest way to repair or replace a diff?Do any companies offer reconditioning services?

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Dunno. Ashcroft do a new part for £375 plus VAT.

Cheers

Blippie