So while I’m doing my oil change, I look back at the rear wheels, and am horrified to see this:
It appears the passenger side trailing arm shield came loose, and was wrenched down under the axle (I never heard or felt it). Probably when that happened the axle boot came off. I tried forcing the shield back into position, but couldn’t do it easily.
I just had rebuilt axles installed mid-last year. The car has only driven a few hundred miles since I last looked under the car at the tech session this fall. I’m guessing it hasn’t been long since the CV boot has been off.
So I had some questions about if I should rebuild the axle and replace the boot, and how can I secure the trailing arm shield better. I was relieved to find out I could reattach the boot, and secure it. I removed the clamps, put the boot back in place, and secured it with zip ties. Sadly, the boot has a small puncture, and should be replaced. I’ll think about doing this next winter, and I’ll keep an eye on the zip ties in the meantime.
I took the trailing arm shield off, and examined the clips. They’re corroded and kind of bent up. I don’t have a part number for them, but I’ll try to find some replacements. Since I had one trailing arm shield off, I decided to examine the TAB. After looking over the process for inspecting the TABS, I invested in a floor jack, and some jack stands. With the car jacked up, I tried wiggling the rear wheels, but they were secure. I can see the shims on my passenger side, and I can conclude I’m not missing any on the driver’s side. Someday I’ll check the bolts, but for now I’m satisfied.
I also bought a torque wrench for future TAB replacement, and other projects. So far I can’t figure it out.
While under the car, I also noticed a small coolant leak coming from the hose joint below the tank. The hose clamp looks corroded, so I ordered a new hose with clamps.
Good thing I do my own oil changes!