2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission cracking noise coming from around driver side hub

[VolsFan]

I have been experiencing a strange noise when I go into reverse and sometimes when in drive for the first 1/2 mile or so it will do it once, I can only describe as like a cracking or popping noise, sounds like it is on the drivers side. Its kinda scaring me, been going on for sometime now, wanted to fix it before it leaves me stranded. New hubs on both sides, new upper and lower ball joints on passenger side, could a u-joint be causing this? Also, when I did the drivers side hub replacement back in the late fall, the axle seal was shot, leaked fluid out for a while, not sure if this is coming back to bite me or not. Thanks for any suggestions,

Rick

 

[tp0d]

Definitely U-joints, mine were doing the same thing late last year, had to change em out. Do both right and left, as they both have the same amount of wear. What you're hearing is the needle bearings popping on a divot in the shaft caused by wear.

-j

 

[VolsFan]

awesome, thanks! I will get on that ASAP.

 

[Extreme1]

The oil leakage after having the axles out is pretty common. I only jack up one side when I pull the shafts and that minimizes the drippage.

 

[VolsFan]

Update on the popping noise. My u-joints turned out to be perfect, ball joints were fine. It ended up being the driver side caliper slide pin was hanging up on the top causing it to wear irregularly. Put new ceramic pads on with new pins and dust boots and no scary noises, brakes well. Thanks for the info though, atleast I know everything else is fine now.