My 02 Accord LX 2.3L 5-Speed is making a rhythmic thump under load/acceleration that seems to be coming from the Passenger side front area. Noticeable in all gears but only under harder acceleration or when say pulling under load like climbing a Grade. Pulled spark plug boots to check for oil leaking into that area from valve cover seals causing mis-fire - no leaks. Car has 156xxx miles and I believe these are the original CV Axels

Your thoughts?

 

worn inner CV joint was what I found on my '01 with similar symptoms. opened it up before sending back for the core charge and found pitting in the tripod bearing groove/"raceway"

does it change frequency with speed?

does it happen on deccel too (in gear, down a hill maybe, foot off throttle.. i.e. engine braking)?

check your suspension for loose joints too just to rule it out. especially lower ball joint and radius rod (bolts to the lower control arm from the front cross brace under the radiator)