That'* how they look from the factory. Check to make sure your catalytic converter gears aren't the problem.

On a side note, I hope the moderators here don't mind me whoring up this thread with pictures of a jacked up tranny. Cause, I plan on ripping into it now, and posting as much as I can. For educational purposes of course.

So far today I was able to remove both front struts and axles. Boy, that drivers side was a real pain in the arse. Also found out that I need new brake pads. Both of them have cracks in the pads.
How hard is it to change the grease boot on the lower A-arm? I punctured mine today.
Couple of pics as promised...
Driverside


Passenger Side

yeah shes done, id bet money on your differential being worn out as well, metal shavings generally migrate from there in.

Whats funny is, while pulling the drivers side shaft out, it kind of seperated at the inside joint. I was looking at the bearings and found one side having a couple missing.



I don't think one of those bearings could have gotten inside. Unless it jumped outside the boot and pulled the dipstick out and jumped in. :P

Why did you take out the struts and things? I understand the axles...am confused on the rest though.

And please..post all the pics you take.. education is wonderful...seeing how things can go bad is always helpful in future recognizing of issues

well the car is white....

and yes please post the pics....not too many threads of picture teardowns around here

They were in my way. I don't like it when things(or people) get in my way. It was only 3 nuts anyway.

Not after I get done with it.

Yea, will try and get all the pics I can. I just got back from the local Autozone and was looking at the tranny book, unfortunatley it doesn't cover mine. Just the normal 4T60

Yeah, that book I believe the Chilton'* one? only covers the 440T4 (4T60). Look on ebay for a book.