Squeaking at back

[James k]

Hi,
I was driving my Traveller around yesterday and about halfway through the day it started making a squeaking noise at the back as it drove. It's a rhythmic sound as the suspension goes up and down. It makes the sound when I push down on the back wing. What could this be and is it likely to be dangerous to drive?

Thanks
James

[chesney]

Probably suspension bushes are worn/dried out. Try squirting some WD40 around where the suspension bushes are on the rear springs and see if that helps, though the only guaranteed solutuion is replacement (with poly - they are much better) if the bushes are worn. Can re-oil the dampers at the same time too!
I've just replaced the bushes on my Trav to poly, but clearly didn't use enough red grease and they do squeak a bit. If they keep squeeking, I'll have to take them out and re-grease them. So if you do replace them, don't be afraid to cover them in lots of grease!

[James k]

Okay, I'll try that. You don't think the wheel's likely to fall off then?!

[James k]

I've just sprayed it with WD40 and the noise has stopped, at least it's stopped when I push on the wing. I'll take it for a drive soon to see.

[chesney]

No, not a wheel off. The absolute worst that will happen is the metal-on-metal contact wearing the pin out to excessive measure, but that would take many many thousands of miles!

[James k]

Ah okay. I'll be alright driving it for the moment then?

[chesney]

Yep!

[James k]

Just driven it for a while. No squeaking! Thanks for the tip

[chesney]

Glad it paid off! In all seriousness, the real fix (if it is worn bushes) is to replace them, but they don't need doing immediately. Just enjoy driving your Trav for the time being!