1996 import with turning shudder

jerrypolecat
08-23-2009, 08:05 AM
Hi

I recently aquired an import 1996 crv auto which seems to of been really well looked after and drives very well. The only thing I have noticed is that there is some mild 'shuddering' when turning tightly at low speed. Is this something to worry about or this whats know as a characteristic?

Thanks

J

weatherman
08-23-2009, 10:10 AM
"It's all ball bearings, these days."

Seriously though, wheel bearings is one possible answer, I think. It would cause problems at any speed, but you're more likely to notice it while turning at low speed.

I also had a bad steering dampener on a Jeep once that caused shuddering, but that was more at high speed and especially if hitting a pothole while turning.

tsmithvt
08-23-2009, 11:57 AM
Hi

I recently aquired an import 1996 crv auto which seems to of been really well looked after and drives very well. The only thing I have noticed is that there is some mild 'shuddering' when turning tightly at low speed. Is this something to worry about or this whats know as a characteristic?

Thanks

J

If your V has RT4WD the answer might be that your rear differential needs attention. When more advanced, RT4WD clutch chatter can cause "shuddering".

The following TSB may apply. Even though the TSB is written for Gen 2 and later Vs, the problem goes back to the earliest RT4WD Systems:

http://www.in.honda.com/Rjanisis/pubs/SB/A07-024.PDF

If your V does have RT4WD and the rear differential has not been serviced in the last 15 to 20K of use, the "Corrective Action" referenced in the above TSB may just fix your problem. Good luck.:)

jerrypolecat
08-23-2009, 02:03 PM
Thanks.

They both sound like relatively inexpensive problems (HOPES!).

Someone had mentioned Drive Shaft wear which really worried me, but I would of expected problems all round if that were the case.

If anyone has any other opinions I would be glad of the advice as I am new to this 4x4 lark.

J

weatherman
08-23-2009, 06:44 PM
I had rear differential problems in my Jeep (actually, that's what's inspired me to trade it in for a CR-V) and I wouldn't describe it as a "shudder" and it didn't really increase when turning. There was a definite hum, whir, etc that was much more noticeable (increased in both volume and pitch). And it was definitely coming from the rear. I say this not to disagree with tsmithvt, but just to offer another symptom of the problem.

If it is something to do with the differential, act quick. Differential failure can be catastrophic and result in snapping the driveshaft or other significant damage.

lizzurd
08-23-2009, 06:59 PM
tsmithvt is pointing you in the right direction. This is a well known issue with Crvs and Elements when the dual pump fluid in the rear diff breaks down.

The rear diff used in the Honda RT4Wd system differs from a traditional rear in that it has two fluid pumps operating the 4wd system.


This thread is the best place to start for info on changing thr rear diff fluid.

http://www.crvownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6585

jerrypolecat
08-24-2009, 01:23 AM
Thanks I am reading the info now.

I should perhaps point out that the 'shudder' appears to be from the front wheels not the back.

tsmithvt
08-24-2009, 09:07 PM
Thanks I am reading the info now.

I should perhaps point out that the 'shudder' appears to be from the front wheels not the back.

Still could be a RT4WD issue. Half of the clutch plates in the RT4WD pack (rear diff) are directly connected to a second ring gear in the front differential through the prop shaft and transfer case. The other half of the clutch plates drives (or is driven by) the pinion in the rear differential.

If the RT4WD clutch pack (rear diff) has graduated from a higher frequency "moan/groan" to a lower frequency "chatter", the "shudder" may well appear to be coming from the front wheels.

Certainly no guarantees but if the rear differential has not been serviced in 15 or 20 K, an oil change (Honda Dual Pump Fluid II only) couldn't hurt. It's due anyway.

Good luck in any event.:)

jerrypolecat
08-25-2009, 10:16 AM
Still could be a RT4WD issue. Half of the clutch plates in the RT4WD pack (rear diff) are directly connected to a second ring gear in the front differential through the prop shaft and transfer case. The other half of the clutch plates drives (or is driven by) the pinion in the rear differential.

If the RT4WD clutch pack (rear diff) has graduated from a higher frequency "moan/groan" to a lower frequency "chatter", the "shudder" may well appear to be coming from the front wheels.

Certainly no guarantees but if the rear differential has not been serviced in 15 or 20 K, an oil change (Honda Dual Pump Fluid II only) couldn't hurt. It's due anyway.

Good luck in any event.:)


THANKS tsmithvt, AND TO ALL THOSE THAT SUGGESTED REAR DIFF FLUID. I HAD IT FLUSHED AND REPLACED TODAY - PROBLEM SOLVED!!!

NEVER TRUST A DEALER WHEN HE SAYS 'THEY ALL DO THAT'!

GTCB-chris
08-25-2009, 10:41 AM
glad we could be of help, hope to see you stick around!