Recently when passing another car I heard a clanking noise come from the rear of the camino just as I floored it. Since then the noise comes and goes, but it only comes when I apply more gas (power). Being orientened to always owning front wheel drive vehicles this is an area I am unfamiliar with.

If there is something wrong, hopefully it would be something I could tackle myself. I am going to be in the process of building the motor up to about 300 hp or a little less. I am a HUGE fan of "bolt-on" upgrades as I do not have the time, money, or equiptment to fabricate or have someone else fabricate for me. I had already been exploring a posi rear end from an SS MC or GNX but don't want to hassle with shortening the driveshaft.
Depending on the rear end (stock) that I have (87 w/305) I guess I am limited to one of the posi type lockers, or can the internal parts just be swapped out with a posi? If not or if so what is the difficulty of repairing a clanking rear end? Any suggestions would be most welcomed :)

I would start by checking the U joints

Don's probably nailed it for you. Replace them both while you're at it. No big deal. :-)

Keep us posted.

Take care.

Sounds like U-joints like mentioned, but if that doesn't cure it, check the pinion play......(that may have to be done by a shop), depends on your mechanical inclinations and skills, plus available tools.

That don't sound like u-joints to me! A u-joint will clunk when you put the car in gear, forward or reverse. Clanking is an internal problem. I'd take it to a good rear end shop.

Here is a simple little test for u-joints.

On level ground hold the brake put car in drive give small amount of gas still hold brake now do the same for reverse.

If it is u-joints you should here the clank or clunk you have been hearing when you go from drive to reverse and back.

thanks, I will try that tomorrow morning, am changing the oil and and chasing down a power steering leak.
How easy is it to swap out the u-joints? Priced some with grease fittings @ the auto parts store for around 15 bucks.

sent PM

sent reply, thnx