Went to UK last week in my 2004 TD4 Freelander and on the motorway at about 55mph until 65+mph there is a strong vibration. The vibration is not from the front or the rear but from the centre.

Just to be sure I had all the wheels balanced but no change, when I got home I jacked up the front if the car and where the rear prop joins the IRD there is a big rubber spacer, that was very hot and signs of oil or grease across the underside inline with the rubber spacer.

I also noticed OSF drive shaft rubber has a split and has thrown grease over the under side of the car. I now see oil leaking from my rear diff NSR.

Before I took the car to the UK it had a full service and I noticed that the front rear diff mounting was a little worn so I replaced it and at the same time checked all of the drive train for leaks and signs of ware but all was OK.

I guess what I'm asking here is the following:-

1, What is the name of the rubber spacer brtween the prop shaft and the IRD?
2, Now that this spacer needs to be replaced, will I have to get the bearing on the IRD output replaced?

3, Do these rubber spacers need to be replaced and if so how often?

4, Should I just replace the boot on the OSF drive shaft as I cant find any play in the joint or should I replace the whole drive shaft?

I,m sure the VCU is OK as its only 18 months old and was replaced by the dealer and has only done 20k miles. When I put the car in reverse on full lock I cant feel any drag like I could when the VCD was gone last time?

Any advice welcome.

 

Sorry, I have very little experience with the Freelander.