Vibrations

CBattaglia · #1 (**permalink**) 09-30-2007, 04:05 PM

I know you have to check nuts and bolts on these cars, but what happened today was nuts. The engine backfired and sputtered on the highway when I tried to accererate. Then she died. I pulled over tried the key and got nothing. I figured the alternater crapped out. Turns out the positive terminal vibrated off. The wing nut vibrated UP 3/4 of an inch then the cable made its way off the terminal.

I never thought I would have to loc tight the battery terminals. Now I have to go over the whole car.

I am switching over to Poly mounts, I suppose the vibration problem wont get better

CHI-TOWN TOM · #2 (**permalink**) 10-01-2007, 05:42 AM

Similar thing happened to me with my SPF. Driving along fine, next thing the lights are weak and car is not running well. I too thought alternator or other wiring issue. Turns out that the positive battery terminal had come loose on the trunk mounted Optima. Re-tightened and has never been an issue again!
I also check the cables and connections to the frame and starter as well as other underhood wiring when I am under changing the oil and detailing the car.

BDHE · #3 (**permalink**) 10-01-2007, 06:41 AM

Chris;

The vibration problems with these cars (even without poly mounts) is really pronounced. I guess that's to be expected when you put a license plate on a race car.

Just last week we went over our car and found numerous loose nuts and bolts to include the drive-shaft bolts! I'm going to start a routine check of all fasteners from now on.

Please let me know what you think after you've installed your poly motor mounts! I'll be interested to know how much vibration is increased.

Bryon 2627

Jerry Clayton · #4 (**permalink**) 10-01-2007, 08:43 AM

There is a very high probability that all your loose bolts are a result of driveshaft vibrations caused by misalignment on such a short shaft.

Jerry

sandbox · #5 (**permalink**) 10-01-2007, 03:56 PM

Hi, all. Well, after seven long years I finally drove my Cobra to the shop this afternoon to have it aligned. It vibrated all the way there like CRAZY. I hope most of it comes out with the alignment but I doubt that will cure it all. It seems to vibrate badly about 30mph when on the gas. Smooths out some when you get off it, but really does it as you speed up. If it's in the driveshaft, how do you align it properly. How do I know if I have the proper pinion angle for the 8.8 rear out of a '95 Mustang GT? Any help would be appreciated.