I have a 2011 Ranger 4x4. The front axle is making a loud clunking noise when both in reverse and in drive. I think it has to do with something with the live axle in the front. I recently tried engaging 4x4 low to drive the truck onto ramps and it was giving me a hard time sometimes the light would not even flash.
any advice would help or common problems with the live axle in the front.

Things I have checked.

• Front hub is not loose
• removed the transfer case motor and checked that it was in the 2wd position.
• slowly moved truck forward and found that the clunk is coming from the passenger front.
• CV axle is solid.

 

Sounds to me like a CV axle is on its way out.

Wheel bearings generally groan and get louder with speed.
A broken tooth in your differential would likely cause a lot of clunking constantly, and could potentially stop the truck while driving.

I would take your passenger side CV out and thoroughly inspect it for wear.