97 Accord-vibration under load only

You're just feeling this vibration, or hearing it, or both?
Does it vary with engine speed or road speed?
Have you checked your engine mounts?

 

I have a 97 Accord 4door sedan, 4 cylinder 2.2 liter, manual
transmission, 122K miles. It has a pronounced vibration, particularly
in 2nd and 3rd gears only when under significant load. By that I mean
when you hard accelerate or accelerate up a hill.

I recently had timing, balance shaft belts, drive belts and drive
axles changed by a reputable mechanic . I'm not sure this is a factor
as, my son (the driver of the vehicle) did not notice any difference
before or after, but then he did not notice the vibration at all. I
only drove the car after the work was done. Since there is a
significant difference in the decibel level that we run the stereo,
that may account for the different perspective on the existence of the
vibration. It is, however, a very un-Honda like vibration (this is
the fourth Honda in the family, never had one act like this).

Any thoughts on what to look for as a cause?

 

When you get a buzzing feel like that under load it's often because
some part of the engine has managed to lean against the bodywork.
It can even be some part of the exhaust system.

 

Feeling it mostly, although it is pronounced enough to shake change in
the console, making a noise. No discernable noise from the engine
compartment.

When shifting normally through the gears, but under load at the lower
half of the shift range, which would probably equate to 2100-2600 rpm
under load.

Yes, visually. seem to be ok. that is bolts and bushings seem to be
in place.

 

Since the timing belt and driveshaft has been replaced recently, either
one could cause vibration under load. You should ask your mechanic to
check his work. I have a car that a mechanic in NYC put the timing belt on
with 1 tooth off. Are your axles new or reman?

 

I'll do that. The guy has a good rep and has done work for me before
but everyone makes mistakes.

Axels are new. He doesn't use rebuilt anything unless it is not
available new.