I did a search on this and didnt really find what i was looking for. Today i was backing a stock trailer up to a loading chute and had to engage 4 HI as the ground was really greasy and the truck wouldnt move in 2wd. I heard a mild clanking noise anytime i turned the wheel a little off center. Wouldnt do it if i had the wheel straight. The 4wd was working as the front tire was throwing manure and mud in front of the truck. The noise was coming from under the front of the truck. After loading the calf and pulling onto more solid ground i could still hear it if i turned the wheel in either direction. It makes no noise at all in 2wd. I have started to notice a mild rythmic vibration at 70mph in 2wd the last couple weeks. I rarely use the 4wd. I am wondering if it might just be the ujoints in the drive shaft or something more serious. The joints in the front shaft dont feel to be loose by hand. I have 56000 on the odometer. If any one has any ideas or expierianced this, i would appreciate any input on this.

 

hmmm. ever replace the front u-joints?

 

Nope none of the joints have been changed. Are you referring to the drive shaft joints or axle joints??

 

If you can get it in a garage or barn, jack the front end up and spin the wheels by hand, turn them and wiggle anything that has a joint on there. Probly will find a bad u joint. I found most of my front end stuff this way. Its easyeir to find loose stuff with out the 3k lbs on the wheel.

 

I havent taken the weight off the suspension yet. I will try to to do that tomorrow. Thnx. I am hoping that the u-joints are the problem.

 

I never looked at your sig till now 03. Id bet it is the u jointon the axle. We got an 03 here that i put probly 4-5 sets on so far. Also had the front drive shaft replaced under warranty at 12k. Goin to locking hubs this spring, i think.

 

my money is on the front axle u-joints too. those things can still feel and looktight and be buggered cause the needle bearing are so full of dirt and other crap they still feel tight.

 

I've had 3 u joins go out in my '02 because of that stupid full time locked frontend!! I want manual locking hubs! I bet you anything it's the front u joint on the axle.