2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Clicking Noise From Front End ???

[MDF99]

When driving along at slow speeds I notice a clicking noise coming from the front of my truck, perhaps driver's side front, it clicks faster as I increase speed and clicks slower as I decelerate. I'm thinking it's a u-joint but am not sure. My truck is a 97 2500 4x4. Has anyone had this problem? I'm seeking advice on how to track down this problem ASAP. Thanks.

 

[Joe G.]

Try this: Jack the truck up and put the front axle on axle stands. Rotate the wheels by hand with them straight ahead. Turn the steering wheel hard one way. Rotate tires again. Repeat with the wheels turned the other way. If you have a U-joint going out it won't rotate smoothly in at least one of the hard over positions, but should be pretty good straight ahead. A bad U-joint will probably be rough feeling when turned. Make sure that you check both sides. One may be just be quieter than the other but still getting bad. Check for ball joint slack while you are at it.