My '87 GXL is making a loud noise from the rear when I take a hard turn at ~45mph or above. The noise is hard to describe- it's like a combination of grinding and howling. I have only been able to test it when taking a right, not a left. I don't hear this noise otherwise (i.e. highway driving, moving from a stop, etc.). I don't think it's the tires, either (Dunlop Direzza Star Spec), since I'm not feeling any slippage from the rear and the noise does not sound like tire squeal.

It could be rear wheel bearings, but since I don't hear the noise otherwise, I want to say it's the LSD. Any thoughts?

 

I would suspect a wheel bearing. Lift up the car, grab the wheel and try to wiggle it back and forth. If there is any movement then its the wheel bearing.

 

I was hoping it wouldn't be that. From what I've read here, rear wheel bearings are a PITA to do:

http://howto.globalvicinity.com/gv_w...=303&co=1&vi=1

 

I secondly suggest the wheel bearing, but a lot of it depends on what kind of noise it is making.
It's also the most likely item as it is sort of a wear item.

With all due respect, you should take the wheel bearing suggestion as a blessing of an idea to check out. Other things it could be: CV joint, rear differential, broken rear control arm and bushing, or something with the suspension are all likely more difficult and expensive to fix.
In fact the only cheaper /easier fixes that there might be would be a torn CV boot that only hits something when the rear flexes, something like a stuck brake caliper, or just a flat spot on the tire.

 

You're right. I'll have a look at the CV joints and control arms while I'm under there. I doubt it's the CV boots, since I checked those a couple of days ago and they're intact. I'm going to rebuild or replace the LSD and replace the bushings over the winter.