My 88 RX7 convertible has been making a sqeeking sound for a couple months now. The mechanic says I need to have the U-Joints and driveshaft replaced. He says if it breaks on the road it could be a mess. I have to drive to Colorado (7hours) soon but the bad thing is I just lost my job. Any tips on how safe this might be to let go until I get another job. Also, any tips about where I might be able to find a reasonably priced replacement?

 

i think Mazdatrix.com has a good driveshaft. I think it comes w/ u-joints and they are replaceable if they ever go bad.

The stock u-joints are not replaceable.

 

Dude, if in fact that is your d-shaft...it really could be a mess...this model (I have two) the original shaft does not allow for easy replacement of just the U_Joints...and there is not a "cheap" way to remedy this as far as anything I ever looked into...your options are (assuming it is the U Joints)
1. buy a new shaft...Mazda is the best but its around
$500
2. find a reputable drive shaft rebuilder in your area...
he can redo the shaft with exchangeable Joints and
average price for this should be about $300...
Sorry, or
3. take a chance on a wrecking yard pull...shouldnt be
more than $50 just make sure that the damaged
vehicle wasnt too badly rammed and shaft was
damaged...
Good Luck ! !

 

i have them for $275.00 with replaceable u joints-
chris @ spd racing

 

This only sqeaks when I slow down with the gears and even then it's not bad. Is is really something that I need to worry about right now?

 

Get under the car and move the shaft left to right then up and down... if there is freeplay then start worrying... if none.. the dont worry

 

Squeaking? Mine made a rumbling sound when I was driving when the u-joints started giving out. I don't think it should squeak if its the driveshaft. You sure its not something as simple as your belts?

-Joe

 

A rumbling noise usually indicates the bearings are ground away inside the cap. If the needle bearings are dry, it could squeak. Not uncommon; check for a grease fitting either in the cross or possibly in the bearing cap itself. More than likely, if it is noisy now, it's too late to save the joint. But, you can try. Hope this helps.