My '73 has a C4 automatic, and I've always had this issue but now I've got more money to work with. When I put the car into reverse, there's a loud clunk and a bit of a shutter. When the car goes from 1st to 2nd, there's also a clunk, and if I'm givin' it a go, it'll burn rubber. The u-joints are good, the idle isn't set too high -- I'm wondering if this tranny (along with my engine) are due for a rebuild? I don't have THAT much money.. Thanks for the help guys, you're always among the best to go to for any Comet problems. Steve
Broken rear motor/trans mount? Also check to see how much free movement is in the rear end before the drive shaft begins to turn. Use one wheel to check this, may have worn ring and pinion gear etc. Also if the trans itself has worn internal parts, sometimes will allow the gear train to move beyond factory spec's causing clunking and such when engaged. Make sure the exhaust system is not hitting the floor when put in gear(broken motor mounts again).
Anyone have pictures of what motor mounts I should be looking for? Or what I should be looking for at all? I'm worthless with engines.
An easy way to check for loose or broken mounts, is to have someone hold the brakes on while lightly pushing on the gas pedal then releasing it repeadly. If they are broken, the engine will torque or rock to one side excessively. The rear mount is a oblong rubber and steel piece that bolts to the tailshaft of the trans, just ahead of the front u-joint on the driveshaft. It sits between the tailshaft and the frame crossmember. The engine mounts are similiar and are usually located midway on each side. They are molded to the steel and mounting studs or bolts in some cases, and with age and abuse, sometimes crack and tear loose.