Sloppy, ANNOYING rear end problem..someone help please!

[Eric_7810]

Hey guys, I have a 91 TSI AWD. It's got 157,000 on it and I have a problem that is getting worse. Whenever I take off, or shift, once I let out the clutch and the clutch hits the contact point, my rear end seems to slop before it turns. It makes a knock that can be felt throughout the car and its LOUD. Before I checked it out I thought it felt like a U-Joint, but I lifted the rear wheels off the ground and had my buddy hold the wheel still and I went under and shook the driveshaft back and forth, and everything is solid, the slop seems to be inside the differential b/c I was able to move the driveshaft a little bit, and the wheel did not move, but I heard that same clunk noise from inside the diff, just not as loud of course. Does this make sense? I am new to the DSM world and this is something I have no experience with and need some feedback from someone who knows whats going on with this thing, or has had this same problem with their car. Help is appreciated thanks alot!

 

[Mirage2LTurbo]

As long as the ring and pinion are in good shape, you can get it rebuilt (shimmed and whatever else is done). I had mine rebuilt by a local friend, no more lash play.

 

[Eric_7810]

Aight, I have connections with one of my good friends, whats a reasonable price for a rebuild? Would it even be worth/easier to swap in a diff with less miles?

 

[Detail]

also, check your carrier bearing back there...when they go it clunks when you hit it...

D