A while back I thought I was having some front driveshaft issues, kind of a clunk when driving in 4wd. Turns out the slip joint part of the shaft was pretty worn but I think I have another issue in the front diff.

My question is... how much movement is normal when turning the pinion yoke before the pinion gear starts to turn the ring gear? I haven't pulled the cover off yet to inspect and see if anything seems out of the ordinary... I just think it's moving too much from what I'd believe to be normal.

 

Anyone have any input on this?

 

Not very much, it's hard to explain without being there. I could easily tell by feel. Sorry I can't be of more help.

 

Well come on up for a tour... lol

 

Haha, meet about halfway in Las Vegas, NV? Then we could at least find something to do.

 

Wrong way... Jefferson City looks about half way! Not sure what's there though... lol

 

Wrong way for both of us, but at least there's something to do there. Nothing worth seeing if you take a straight route.

 

about 1/8 turn max...youll have to remove the diff and check backlash to do it right

 

Okay.. I don't think I'm up to an 1/8 turn yet. Maybe I'll just put the shaft back in and see what it does. The guy at the driveline shop didn't think it was worn enough to make that kind of noise.

 

Its really hard to tell by turning the pinion...because it will depend on the gear ratio and pinion diameter and stuff.

Theres a good chance that the transfer case or CV axles are causing the noise...explain in detail when the noise happens and what you have to do to make it happen

 

It only happens with 4wd is engaged... it's just one short pop/bang sound when you hit the gas a little harder and the same sound is a lot fainter if you quickly let off the gas. It doesn't seem to do it if you ease onto the accelerator.