Hmm... My Camry's been afflicted with NASCAR-syndrome, hates right turns

[SophannPhin]

Hey everyone, first post here. I can't believe after all these years of owning Toyota's, I've missed out on a great resource like this. I've gotta say I'm very impressed by the breadth and usefulness of this site and the contributions of all its member. Keep up the good work folks!

Now, onto my car problem: My '92 3VZ Camry's been struggling with right turns lately. As I'm exiting every right turn, the car bogs very badly. The engine can revs away yet the car feels like it's stalling. At first, I suspected it was the left CV axle. However, I haven't heard the tell-tale CLICK CLICK CLICK sound that (in my experience) indicates a failing axle.

I'm wondering if it could be the differential? I'd like to know if anyone's ever encountered this problem before and what the cause could be? Muchas gracias in advance guys!

[Venom_5]

probably the CV Joint if ur hearing those clicks ....

[Kingdom934]

Hmm...he said he hasn't heard the clicks...although sometimes they are 'thump thump thump' or 'knock knock knock'.

Is this only with right turns? I must say this is the first I've heard.

[SophannPhin]

Kingdom934,

Yep, it seems to only occur during right turns. It's been awhile since I've checked the diff fluid level, but I'll do that if I get an opportunity tomorrow. If it is the diff, it just seems very odd that only right turns are affected.

[TTercel]

Maybe something with your power steering and rack and pinion...Not quite sure very weird problem...

[eyeball96]

Possible its the steering rack! IDK?

[ghettosled]

put the front end up and jack stands and turn the wheel from lock to lock to see if its bindingi on anything. with the car stationary, it will help to narrow down where the problem is coming from (whether engine related, or steering).

[SophannPhin]

Thanks for the responses so far guys! Anyway, I won't be able to do anything with the car just yet as its been pouring all day today. However, at this point I'm inclined to say it's something drivetrain related and not the p/s or steering rack.

Today, I noticed that going into right turns, it feels as though the trans is slipping. As I straighten out the steering wheel, it seems as though something in either the diff or the trans bites and finally gets traction - akin to the way a manual car behaves when your accelerator foot is quicker than your clutch foot. Also, I just checked my tranny fluid level and it's lower than it should be - I'm probably a quart or so shy. Anyway, I'll do some further sleuthing, weather permitting. I'll keep y'all posted.