Clicking/clattering sound HELP!

[N8LHG]

Folks,

Since the weather has gotten nice, and I have windows open, I’ve noticed a “click click click” sound coming from the front right of the truck. Almost like the “rock in the hubcap” sound. Before I rip apart the front bearings and smash my knuckles on it, anyone have any idea what it may be? Could it be brakes? The sound is in time with the turn of the front wheel. Its not real steady, and almost random in its clatter. (Almost like a rock rolling around).

Any ideas from the experts?


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Mark Wardell
1996 Dodge 3500, 4x4, Duel, Green and silver, Shocked farm pin hitch, Goose Neck hitch.

 

[Dave Fritz]

Before you start pulling things apart, check for stones stuck in the tire tread.

Look closely at the axle cross-joint for signs of wear.

Check the brake rotor area for stones stuck in the backing plate or caliper.

Check the stabilizer bar end links.

Check all shock bolts.

Check the bearing only after all of the above are negative.

Dave

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1994 2500HD 4X4 modified for off-road camping
2001 2500 ETH/DEE QC SB 4X4
Fritz's Dodge Ram Tech Page is now dodgeram.org

 

[HEMI®Dart]

Dave is right.

I'll bet its a front axle shaft u-joint. Look for play in the joint and brown colored dust(rust powder)on and around the joint.

http://dieselpowerman. tripod.com/Front%20Axle%20Tech/12%20point%20bolts.jpg



[This message has been edited by HEMI®Dart (edited 04-23-2001). ]

 

[Andy Redmond]

N:

I confer with Hemi-Dart. I changed mine at 36k as it had seen some salt on several occasions in the north.

Check the more reasonable items suggested by Mr. Fritz, however, Mr. Murphy seems to make me replace the most expensive item on the list. It really wasn't to bad, just some labor to pull the axles.

Good luck and and pray for pebbles!

 

[rhoads]

2 Cents
before you do anything,remove the hub caps (centers) also. Test drive.
those little nubs sticking out of the centers look one piece But mine had the same type noise,but after prying,shaking ,looking for a little pebble-found it to the cap .

 

[N8LHG]

Folks,

You guys are monsters! You hit the nail on the head! As you folks guessed, the U joint is bad. I’m going to go ahead and just replace both sides. I can actually grab the joint with my hand, shake it, and it clangs around, its so loose.

Thanks folks! I’m glad it wasn’t anything more serious.

Mark


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Mark Wardell
1996 Dodge 3500, 4x4, Duel, Green and silver, Shocked farm pin hitch, Goose Neck hitch.

 

[ray1933]

Discovered both front drive line u-joints were bad when I had to have the ball joints replaced on the left front. Each cap was pure rust, New ball joints and u-joints now have grease fittings. Had a full break job done also on the front. Spendy.

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95 3/4 4x4 5 Spd K&N Air Filter 110,200 Ride Rite Air Overloads (Catless)
10 1/2 Cabover Camper