Hi-

Hoping I can get some ideas on where to look for the problem. I have a 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 4x4 dually with the 5.9 manual transmission. Everything is STOCK.
For the past 6 months or so after I back out of our sort of long driveway, put it in neutral, get out and close the gate, get back in and put it in second and start to drive it does this horrible clunking noise for a second or two. I can tell it's coming from the front half of the truck. It only does it one time and that's it and it's not every time. However, this morning it happened twice. Once after backing out of my driveway and again when I went to pull out to the main road but it wasn't as bad that time. I don't feel anything in the pedals or clutch. I've had a diesel mechanic look under it from one end to the other but he didn't see anything obvious that would be causing it. Could it be my flywheel? Or something related to the clutch?

 

Most likely front axle u-joint, check for any rust at the u-joint caps. Usually will feel loose if move by pry bar. Make some tight turns and usually will feel u-joint binding up in front end while turning.

 

I just had the front U-joint done in the Spring. However, turning to the left makes a strange vibrating noise. Hmmmm. We thought that was due to a flat we had on the highway and there's a brand new tire on that side. My ABS light came on after that. Getting the wheel assembly replaced this Friday for that.

 

I stand corrected. I had the pinion seal and front diff serviced in the Spring. Hopefully that's all it is then is the U joint.

 

My best bet is the u-joint.

 

Check your spare tire. Took my diesel mechanic friend and I awhile to figure out what the clunking noise I kept hearing was.

You said you had a flat recently. Make sure the spare is tight and not swinging and hitting the pumpkin. Mine had a nice shiny spot on it!!

 

Look at my post above. Mine did not make any noises, but I did take a laser thermometer to my front axle joints and they were the same temp so I figured they were good. Boy was I in for a surprise after tear-down.

Gary