[TurboRA40]

So there are issues of gear wear appearing in the old girls. Is this likely something that could be adjusted out or are new gears or a diff changeover required? When you say both of them are you referring to front and rear or rear and center?

 

[IgorJaramillo]

I replaced both diff mounts and it reduces a lot the clunk. Eventually I will have to replace the engine mounts as well, as someone in the forum recommended. And yes it is better to replace both mounts. See the video at DMGreentech - Rav4 Differential Parts and More | Built to last!

The rear shocks are also something that can be the source of the clunk noise on the rear or your old lady. They are really easy to replace. There is a video on that on you tube from Aussi if I remember correctly.

Good luck with the car.

 

[Jens]

I've replaced the rear shocks already; very easy... Funnily, my car started sagging and swaying after replacing them

I might do the mounts at some point, though my synchro is giving me troubles and I might not want to put too much money into the car at the moment. As long as the clunk is not detrimental to any part I think I'll just live with it.

 

[JRockPDX]

It is a typical RAV4 thing. That is, it's *very* common with the first generation 4wd RAV4.

Note, I've also got a first generation 4Runner in the shop with 200k on it. None of the diff mounts on it have had this sort of problem.... Just query the forum for differential or "clunk" and note all the posts... It's absolutely common to this vehicle, especially since the entire rear diff essentially floats on rubber.

Note, I'm now selling the diff mounts directly (if you're in the 48 states) at a discount to forum members via DMGreenTech RAV4 Parts. If you're outside the 48 states, I refer to Rock Auto - beats spending almost $300 on Toyota parts to resolve a clunky diff....

Anyone heard if these guys are still in business? I tried to contact them about new sway bar end links, but haven't heard anything back.

 

[HarmonicExile]

DIF Mounts

Same problem with mine! ended up being rear diferential mounts.. stealership wants i think almost 800 for the set of both mounts, i got them off ebay for less than $250 if i remember correctly and fixed my problem completely.. they will wear out again but just dont be dumping the clutch everytime u shift