Vibration Problem

[Derek UK]

Yes that rubber mount is the obvious cause. These can have very minor splits that you can't see until you remove the prop and still cause that problem. You'll need to drop the complete prop shaft out so you will be able to check all of the U/J's properly by moving them through their complete range. The rear one usually goes bad first. Phasing is important and make sure you grease the spline well. The flange bolts aren't easy to get at. A very thin flat ring and an open ended needed. Easy to round off the nuts so having a new set for replacement is recommended to minimise frustration. The nuts are nylocs so new is always best.

[arcturus]

The manual says that only need to drop the rear shaft. I did check the UJs and there didn't seem to be any slop but will check again. I have a couple of spare. UJ swap out is not a job I have tackled before, any tips? Yes I will mark the shafts so as to be certain they go back as they came out.

[Derek UK]

Yes you can. I didn't mention, but personally I would also change the bearing at the same time. The front prop will need to come out for that operation.

[dcthompson]

You can have binding in a u-joint, which will yield the symptoms you are describing. The bottom line is this: Pull your driveshafts first, they are the most likely culprit(s).

[ggcton]

My car has a similar problem the engine sound sweet on idle and also when you are up to speed but feels harsh when accelerating and a small judder when setting off.

Do others think the prop could be the problem?

[arcturus]

Get underneath and grip the prop shaft and see if there is excess movement or clunking. Do likewise with the center bearing support. there should be no free or excess up and down movement.