Drive train rattle

[khorn]

First post for one year member. Anyone have knowledge or info about a low speed rattle from the drive shaft/transmission area when idling up a slight incline in 2nd, 3rd, or ? I noticed mine making this racket with under 3,000 miles. It goes away with speed and seems to be vibration related. I cannot see or feel anything underneath and have not dismantled parts yet. I have had it to the dealer who claims it is "within specs", also some comments about gear lash which sounded spurious.

2nd question - any known restrictions on the type of snow chains to use? Living in So. Cal. I don't often have need but plan a tour of the U. S. this year and would prefer to be prepared. I have heard rumors that standard chains are not to be used on ABS wheels?? Doesn't make sense to me but am willing to learn.

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2000 Quad Cab, 2500 long bed, 6 spd 4x2, 30k mile stocker w/Michelin 265/75R16s, line-x bed liner, bed box and Big Sky mud flaps; live in our 30' 10,700 lb '92 Alpenlite 5th wheel full time.

 

[JohnB]

Anytime you lug, the drive train will rattle due to the firing impulses of the engine (lots of torque low rpm). You can also do this by lugging the engine down and trying to accelerate in too high a gear, really capable of this with fueling enhanced.

 

[Alan Reagan]

With the six speed, I get lot of rattle out of the clutch starting off in second. I believe what you are hearing is the clutch springs doing their job trying to transfer the torque to the rear wheels.

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2001 HO 6 spd 2500, 4. 10 LSD, Towing Package, Electric Brakes, SPA EGT/Boost Gauges, Fog Lights, Real Backup Lights, Molded Running Boards

 

[Bad340fish]

IMO if your getting rattle you need to downshift. On my work truck with a 216" wheelbase, ALL if its driveshafts will rattle if your get below 1500 and hit the smoke pedal. Its a horrible sound with that many driveshafts. There is no way it can be good for things.
Clark