LR
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Axles & drivelineMedium severity

Clunk on take-up from worn drive flange splines

Will get worse if left.

Symptoms

A clunk when pulling away or changing between drive and overrun. Excessive rotational play at the wheel hub drive flange.

Likely cause

The splines on the hub drive flange and half-shaft wear when run dry. Very common on coil sprung Defenders.

Suggested fixes

Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.

  1. 1

    Fit new drive flanges and greased splines

    Replace the drive flange and, if worn, the half-shaft end. Pack the splines with grease and fit a new gasket.

    Difficulty:
    Moderate DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  2. 2

    Use greaseable drive members

    Aftermarket drive flanges with grease nipples let you keep the splines lubricated at each service.

    Difficulty:
    Moderate DIY
    Cost:
    ££ (About £50 to £300)

This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.

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