How do I determine whether it is an inside or outside joint.
I am hearing some shuddering when going into a right hand turn or bend, especially if I'm giving it gas like entering and interstate ramp.
I don't hear the traditional clicking like when you make a sharp turn in a parking lot etc., so I'm thinking it may be the inner joint. But I'm not sure how to tell whether it'* the left or right side.
Any ideas?
This is for a 2003 Buick LeSabre

Have you inspected the boots for a visible tear? Without a tear and the grease leaking out it could very well be something else. I suppose you could put the front end on jack stands and chock and e-brake the rear wheels to listen for a problem while someone has the car in gear and turns the steering wheel, but I'd highly suggest you take it to a reputable shop where they can put the car on a lift for a diagnosis, much safer.

Doesn't make any difference if it is an inner or outer joint.....just replace the whole axle, more cost effective timewise......

Do turns in a parking lot and have someone outside the car as you turn both ways, to hear which side is the loudest......

Sure this is not a bearing noise?

Bearings were done recently.

No real noise to speak of, just a shuttering, vibration.

Was hoping that there would be a rule of thumb, i.e, vib when turning right= left axle.
That would probably be true if it were the outer, not sure if it applies if it'* the inner.
Of course I will replace the whole axle, just have to know which one.

I suggest you do the parking lot thing like suggested above. Listen for which way the sound sounds slower or faster. If the sound is faster testing in a left turn then look at the right side. If it is faster in a right turn then look at the left side. Full lock each way should easily create the sound if it is the outer CV, or halfway if a bit more speed is needed.

Let us know how it goes!

I have tried it in a parking lot, couldn't really tell. I'll try again.
As mentioned it'* not really noisy, more of a slight vibration.

Jack the front end of the car up, and while holding the wheels from turning grasp each half shaft (one at a time) and try to turn them to see if there is any play.

Any luck cowboy1611 ?