mustangslayer86

This has been a problem since I've gotten the car about 3 months ago. I own a 1986 Camaro Z28 with the 700R4 transmission. A few notes before I state the issue: Apparently this is a common issue because my dad's 1988 Camaro had the same problem, but he does not remember how to fix it; I checked the transmission oil and it's right on the dot... perfect.

Whenever I shift the car from any gear to drive it clicks and gives a jerk to the car forward. It's done this forever and I'm tired of putting up with it. I can shift from reverse to drive and it really gives a jerk forward and if I hold the brake completely in and shift the car into drive it jerks forward, but the car doesn't move. Hopefully someone has the solution to this because it's starting to get on my nerves.

Thanks guys for your help.

Air_Adam

Check the universal joints on the driveshaft, they might be starting to wear out - they tend to get 'clunky' when putting a load on them, like going from P to Drive, and even moreso when going from a load in one direction to another, like R to D.

Another thing to check might be the transmission mount. Almost every GM rear drive car has problems with the rear transmission mount coming apart. This is usually appearant when under a heavy load though (like going to WOT from a stop, for example) and not with a small load like just putting the trans in gear.

mustangslayer86

Is there any easy way to explain where these are located or should I have my uncle (mechanic) look at it? I'd prefer not to have to take it to him because he's an hour away, but if there is no easy way to find them I suppose I'm going to have to.

Air_Adam

Universal joints are the 'flex joints' in the driveshaft. Lift up the car and you can see them. If you are inexperienced though, having a mechanic look at it would be wise. Same goes for the transmission mount.

mustangslayer86

Thanks. I was crawling under there earlier to take a look at them before I washed it. It's not a problem that can be dangerous when driving, is it? Hopefully it can be fixed inexpensively.

Air_Adam

It shouldn't be anything dangerous or risky, but it should be fixed, as it will get worse and could possibly leave you stranded one day. Universal joints are fairly cheap even for good ones, and they are not hard to install... just need to remove the driveshaft, pound out the old ones and pound in the new ones.