52 Wayfarer help needed

[kadkins]

I love my 1952 Wayfarer that has been in my family from its beginning. Only 56,000 miles and has been basically trouble-free. But now I hear grinding when in gear and driving down the street. Sounds like it's coming from the rear and stops when I idle or push clutch to change gears, but starts again when I release the clutch. All original equipment including fluid drive. Depended on my father for repair advice on this and other cars, but he is now gone and I'm not that knowledgeable about old cars. I have plenty of tools to work with, but just don't know what to do in this arena. Willing and (probably) capable to do it if I just knew what to do.

Suggestions about what is the problem and what to do about it would be most appreciated. Thanks

[72caddy]

Sounds like you have already isolated the problem. Bearing first, jack up the rear and spin each rear tire - see if you hear anything - lets rule out the wheel bearings first and then work inwards....

[keiser31]

If the noise goes away when the clutch is pushed in, it is probably the clutch release (throwout) bearing.