Rear Axle Noise
 

I have a question regarding the rear axle. When I engage the rear brake, I get a distinct clunk. The brake life indicator shows my rear pad is well within tolerance and the rear brake works great. I was wondering if perhaps the rear axle damper has disintegrated and that is what is causing the noise. Any thoughts please.:hmm:

There is a rod (rear torque link) that connects between the drum housing and the frame that prevents the shoe assembly from rotating with the braking forces. Check the fasteners and make sure they are tight.

Good call derbydave. It was definitely loose. Thank you.

A really good call. A loose torque rod could have eventually led to a really bad day if it let go.

This was exactly what was going on with mine. The torque bar was the culprit in my as well.
Cranked it down, now more problems.

Loose fittings is the reason we should all give our bike a good inspection from time to time. It can't hurt and we all get to know the bike a little more and have confidence to tackle the little things that can blossom into a real problem. Back in the day even new bikes came with loose fittings, some were no more than finger tight. Lawyers and quality control fixed a lot of factory flubs but it is up to us as riders to make sure the bike is safe and secure. A hand full of tools can make the difference between a smile and a frown.

The good news is that the cotter pin was still in the bolt and it only took a couple turns of the wrench to get it tightened down. Checked everything else front to rear just to be sure.