I finally got around to replacing the axle. When I removed the old axle and took it apart, I did not find excessive wear on the load bearing surface. I did notice that the actual joint itself fell apart when the inner cup was removed. I also replaced both lower ball joints because one had a busted boot. I also finally managed to get time to replace the old top and upgrade to a glass window. It took far less time than everyone makes it out to be. I'll try to post some new pics soon.

 

so did it fix the problem?

 

Sorry i left that party out. I haven't had any more problems with it since. The longest part of the whole thing was getting the ball joint pressed out.

 

Go figure... My 01 is yet ANOTHER S to have the same clicking noise. I just tightened down both axle nuts today, but without a torque wrench, and will be re-torquing both down again tomorrow, at 220lbs. If that doesn't work, i'll be greasing the axle splines. If not that, then i'll be replacing both axle nuts (does anyone know the price of these?). After that, i'll be removing the spindle nuts and using grease and also on the threads. After that, i guess all i can do is replace the differential fluid/oil, and hopefully not, but replace my left side axle.
What do you guys think? Is that a good plan of action? Thanks for any advice and input/positive criticism.

 

The axle nuts are like 8 bucks from hard top guy. My right side axle ended up being the problem. Changing the diff fluid is a good idea but most likely unrelated to the noise. Check around for the axles if you do end up having to replace one. Honda if I'm not mistaken wants $425+ per axle. I found one for $140 from one of the chain parts stores. The interesting thing was that they only had one in the entire south east. Good luck and keep us posted.

 

If I'm not mistaken, the OEM axles are actually more expensive.

 

I saw a set of spoon axles some where for somewhere around 900 or 1000. I was curious as to whether anyone has used these.