1997 850 AWD Whirring Sound

MrChristy · Post by **MrChristy** » 25 Dec 2017, 10:15

Hello,

I am trying to diagnose my 1997 850 AWD wagon. It recently started making a whirring sound when going faster than 20ish kph.

Please listen here:

As it is -41 here and Christmas, I haven't had much time to look into it. I am leaking what looks like engine oil, but it could very well be oil from the angle gear. My best guess is that the angle gear is close to toast or I have a bad wheel bearing.

Any ideas?

Post by **abscate** » 25 Dec 2017, 12:20

-41 is cool because you don't have to ask if its Degrees F or C

If the whirr changes as you steer left/right its a wheel bearing.

MrChristy · Post by **MrChristy** » 25 Dec 2017, 14:35

True, but the Audi sure as hell doesn't like it!

I haven't noticed any change based on steering, but I'm not ruling out the bearing just yet.

Post by **FLXC90** » 25 Dec 2017, 16:01

Sounds about like my FWD N/A S70 in 60 deg F weather. (except my exhaust is noisy too!) Did the noise start aboot the same time as the cold streak?

Can you tell somewhat where the whirr is coming from, Front, center, left, right?

MrChristy · Post by **MrChristy** » 25 Dec 2017, 19:48

It's definitely coming from the passenger side, more towards the center than the wheel.

I just got back from a work trip (drove almost 1500km), noticed a bit of an oil leak. But I figured that was the disgusting amount I had spilled while trying to fill.

It was maybe -17 when I was leaving for work (the day after I got back), as I reversed out of my driveway, it felt like I hit a bump or a large piece of sludge. It was after that bump when the sound started.

I'm thinking all the gear oil leaked out of the bevel and that bump I felt was it breaking.

Post by **scot850** » 25 Dec 2017, 23:28

If it is the angle gear there is someone selling 2 angle gear units on Kijiji in Edmonton for $250 ea.

https://www.kijiji.ca/v-transmission-dr ... nFlag=true

Also check the nose (front) bearing on the VC unit (I had one make a whirring noise and it collapsed when removed), check the center prop-shaft bearing and the donut support in the middle.

Neil.

MrChristy · Post by **MrChristy** » 26 Dec 2017, 11:30

Hi Niel,

Thanks for the input. I have left the Volvo at a shop as I do not have the time or resources to troubleshoot any further. I am leaving for a short trip to visit family tomorrow.

I will definitely keep that Kijiji add saved!

Mike

Post by **scot850** » 26 Dec 2017, 13:33

You are welcome and I wish you good luck!

Neil.